84: Superpowers or Differences? A New Take on Neurodiversity [Parenting Neurodivergence Series]

Our brains are as unique as our fingerprints, yet society often expects us all to think, learn, and behave in uniform ways. We're told to sit still, focus on demand, and visualize on cue. But what if these expectations are built on flawed assumptions about how our minds work?

This week on the podcast, we explore the fascinating spectrum of mental imagery, from aphantasia (the inability to visualize) to hyperphantasia (vivid, movie-like imagination). This reveals just how diverse our cognitive experiences can be. You'll discover how some people can't conjure a simple mental image, while others experience rich, multi-sensory internal worlds.

But this variation in how we process and experience information extends far beyond visualization. It affects how we learn, communicate, and interact with the world around us. We'll dive into real-life examples and cutting-edge research that challenge our assumptions about “normal” brain function.

Understanding these differences is crucial, not just for personal insight, but for reconsidering how we approach education, workplace expectations, and even mental health diagnoses. By embracing the full spectrum of cognitive diversity, we can create more inclusive, effective strategies in therapy, education, and daily life.

Listen in as we challenge our assumptions and celebrate the unique ways each mind works. Whether you're an educator, mental health professional, or simply curious about the intricacies of the human mind, this week’s episode will transform how you view cognitive diversity.

The Zero Disturbance podcast is for educational purposes and is not a replacement for a therapeutic relationship or individualized mental health or medical care.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• University of Exeter: The Eye’s Mind
• Parenting Neurodivergence Resource Bundle: Get on the waitlist

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With a Masters in Education from Vanderbilt, Kambria has been creating trainings and teaching adult learners for over 20 years. As the Director of Education and Quality Improvement at Stanford Medical School, she created ease in complex systems, thereby giving medical trainees successful learning experiences. Now, as a dedicated mom, therapist, and EMDR Consultant, Kambria knows what it means to do things efficiently, effectively, and in a learner-centered way. When she isn't podcasting or creating online courses, you can find Kambria playing with her twins on a beach in California.