Gus Walz’s unbridled emotion on the DNC stage opens the door to more understanding of neurodiversity

A Rare Moment of Wholesome Love and Admiration

At the Democratic National Convention, Gus Walz, the neurodivergent son of Minnesota Governor and Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz, shared a heartwarming moment with his father. Gus’ unbridled emotion, as he exclaimed, “That’s my dad! That’s MY DAD!” with tears in his eyes, was a rare moment of wholesome love and admiration, especially in a public setting, from a teenager toward their parent.

This display of emotion sparked a mix of reactions, with some people mocking Gus for crying, while others apologized and showed understanding once they learned he was neurodivergent. However, this moment also opened the door to more understanding of neurodiversity and the importance of acceptance and support.

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The Breadth of Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is a biological fact, with no two brains working in exactly the same way. Research suggests that 15% to 20% of the U.S. population is neurodivergent, and this number is likely an underrepresentation. Neurodiverse people may be diagnosed with various conditions such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia.

When it comes to neurodevelopmental disorders, there are many co-occurring conditions. For example, anxiety and depression often have overlapping symptoms or can be thought of as a spectrum of one mental health condition. Neurodevelopmental disabilities such as nonverbal learning disorder often exist alongside anxiety and ADHD.

What the DSM Has to Say

While the Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) provides information about the symptoms of neurodivergence, it is not the best resource for understanding neurodiversity. The DSM-5 does not include nonverbal learning disorder as a diagnosis, and its criteria for other diagnoses may not accurately capture the experiences of neurodivergent individuals.

Moreover, the standard criteria for most diagnoses are created by professionals who may not themselves know what the experience is like. This can lead to a medical model of disability, which characterizes differences as deficits that must be treated or cured.

Shifting the Paradigm

Instead of relying on the DSM-5, it is essential to learn from the lived experiences of neurodivergent people. This approach led me to co-author a book, “Understanding the Lived Experiences of Autistic Adults,” with Adam Paul Valerius, an autistic adult and advocate. Directly speaking to neurodivergent people can help society and therapists understand their desires and support needs, rather than projecting neurotypical norms on them.

The Walz family demonstrated on a global stage that while there may be obstacles related to neurodivergence, there are also great strengths. Just as neurotypical people have the autonomy to choose which of their challenges to seek support for and how to receive this support, research shows that neurodivergent voices should be central in determining which supports and solutions best fit their needs.

Resources for Learning More

For those interested in learning more about neurodiversity, there are many resources available. I recommend reading autobiographies by neurodivergent authors, inviting neurodivergent guest speakers to classes, and studying the history of disabilities in America. You can also find many blogs, YouTube channels, and social media sites where you can learn directly from neurodivergent people.

Conclusion

Gus Walz’s unbridled emotion on the DNC stage opens the door to more understanding of neurodiversity. By shifting our paradigm and focusing on the lived experiences of neurodivergent people, we can create a more inclusive and accepting society. It is essential to recognize that neurodiversity is a biological fact and that neurodivergent individuals have the right to autonomy, self-determination, and support.

FAQs

Q: What is neurodiversity?
A: Neurodiversity is a biological fact, with no two brains working in exactly the same way. It refers to the natural variation in brain function and behavior that occurs in the human population.

Q: What is the medical model of disability?
A: The medical model of disability suggests that people with a disability are outside the norm and thus need to be “fixed” or “cured,” placing the problem on the individual rather than on society.

Q: What is the social model of disability?
A: The social model of disability puts the problem of disability on society and culture, recognizing that disability is a result of societal and cultural expectations, rather than a personal failing.

Q: How can I learn more about neurodiversity?
A: You can start by reading autobiographies by neurodivergent authors, inviting neurodivergent guest speakers to classes, and studying the history of disabilities in America. You can also find many blogs, YouTube channels, and social media sites where you can learn directly from neurodivergent people.

Q: Why is it important to recognize neurodiversity?
A: Recognizing neurodiversity is essential for creating a more inclusive and accepting society. It allows us to understand and support neurodivergent individuals, rather than trying to change or fix them.

Q: How can I support neurodivergent individuals?
A: You can support neurodivergent individuals by learning about their experiences, respecting their autonomy, and providing them with the support and accommodations they need to thrive.