Neurodiversity in (Not Only) Public Organizations: An Untapped Opportunity?. Issue 9 (October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Houdek, Petr
• Is Part Of: Administration & society. Volume 54:Issue 9(2022)
• Page Start: 1848
• Page End: 1871
• Publication Date: 2022-10
• Subjects: neurodiversity -- policy entrepreneurs -- innovation -- public organization -- Toxoplasma gondii; Public administration -- Periodicals; 351
• DOI: 10.1177/00953997211069915
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0095-3997

Abstract

This perspective shows how neurodiversity can increase public organizations' innovations and output quality. Studies from business and entrepreneurship fields are used to argue that public organizations may prosper if they recruit neurologically atypical individuals. Their unique thinking styles, coping strategies, and life experiences can lead to public services innovation. The management of public organizations through neurodiversity programs may gain competencies benefiting all employees. However, the promotion of neurodiversity cannot be achieved without demanding changes in organizational culture. The article also illustrates the benefits of neurodiversity using the example of a neurogenerative disease (toxoplasmosis).