Avoiding vulnerability is a common neurodiversity response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and neurodiversity opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Neurodiversity
- Concealing neurodiversity from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when neurodiversity is high is enormous
- Shame about neurodiversity thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of neurodiversity often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Neurodiversity
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in neurodiversity) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and neurodiversity. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Neurodiversity
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.