ABSTRACT
In this chapter, I explore what participants identify as the benefits of neurodivergence. They found aspects of their neurodivergence resulted in experiences they valued. Indeed, they identified contexts in which the characteristics they held because of experiences of Madness and/or distress acted as assets. Most participants identified as having high degrees of empathy and compassion. Some participants felt their experiences helped them cultivate relationality through attunement and awareness of self and others. Several participants found their neurodivergent qualities including empathy, compassion, and attunement to be helpful in their music teaching. Participants described curiosity, an awareness of people’s needs, and high energy. One participant spoke to what he called his “overinclusiveness.” In looking to the benefits of their neurodivergence that participants identified, I am not seeking to erase the difficulties, traumas, and harms experienced.
