Presentation

Some people who have neurodevelopmental disorders are likely to experience difficulties to fully participate in society. These difficulties may manifest themselves in childhood, for example, when the child cannot follow a traditional educational path and then adequate training, and continue into adulthood when it comes to being professionally active.

 

General overview

What are neurodevelopmental disorders?

Neurodevelopmental disorders characterize an "atypical" development of the brain. This can result in cognitive (e.g. language, social skills, planning, attention) and/or motor (motor skills and gestures) difficulties. But atypical functioning can also be a plus for our society. In fact, people with a brain that functions differently can lead to "alternative" ways of thinking and solving problems.

The DSM 5 identifies the following neurodevelopmental disorders:

  • Intellectual disabilities
  • Communication disorders
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
  • Specific Learning Disorder
  • Motor disorders
  • Other neurodevelopmental disorders" which are disorders that are related to characteristic manifestations of neurodevelopmental disorders but do not meet all the criteria for any of the disorders mentioned

 Each type of disorder is characterized by specific manifestations but, in general, these manifestations very often cause difficulties in fully participating in society. In children and adolescents, this can result in difficulties in creating and maintaining social relationships and/or problems in learning at school and then completing vocational training. In adulthood, these difficulties persist and can impact the person's work situation and daily life.

What is social participation?

Social participation is the act of carrying out the activities of daily life, leisure and civic acts, which allows individuals to participate in the functioning of society. Being in a situation of disability (cognitive and/or motor) may represent one or more obstacles to social participation. This is why the Neurodev network is committed to promoting this participation by using all the resources at its disposal.

Who is concerned?

The Neurodev network's activities concern all people with neurodevelopmental disorders, from childhood to adulthood, as well as caregivers and professionals in the field.

Our values here at the Neurodev network

Neurodiversity

The Neurodev network considers that diversity, especially neurodiversity, is a force as beneficial as it is rewarding for society. It is for this reason that members of the Neurodev network tend to promote social participation in people with neurodevelopmental disorders to the maximum extent possible.

Multidisciplinarity

The members of the Neurodev network have professional practices and expertise from the main fields related to neurodevelopmental disorders (psychology, occupational therapy, specialised pedagogy, social work). This multidisciplinarity enriches each activity carried out within the framework of the network with different perspectives and complementary proposals.

The human being is at the center of any action

The members of the Neurodev network share the vision that every action must start and be carried out in full collaboration with people affected by neurodevelopmental disorders and their loved ones.

The activities of the Neurodev network

  • Scientific research
  • Teachings
  • Organization of conferences and events
  • Service provision