You've probably heard the word 'neurotypical' somewhere. Maybe on the internet, or from a friend. It's not really a medical term that our doctors use very often. But it's an important term when it comes to how people's brains develop and function. Simply put, 'neurotypical' is the way the brains of the vast majority of people in the world develop and function.
What is 'neurotypical'? It's very simple!
'Neurotypical' is, imagine, the way the brains of the majority of the world's population, that is, about 80% to 85% of people, are developed and function. These people's brains generally have the same level of various abilities, for example, memory, mathematical ability, and the ability to understand what is said.
But the important thing here is that we are not saying that being 'neurotypical' is good, nor that those who are not, that is, 'neurodivergent', are bad. It is just like your hair color, your skin color. It is a characteristic that is unique to each individual, not something that can be measured as good or bad. We are all different from each other, and that is how it is.
Why are we reluctant to use the word "normal"?
Now you might be thinking, "So why not just call someone 'neurotypical' instead of 'normal'?" Here's the reason. No two brains are ever the same. Just think, there are about 86 billion neurons in a human brain, cells that communicate with each other through electrical and chemical signals! The connections between these neurons are called synapses . There are trillions of these synapses in your brain. This network of synapses is what makes you who you are, and it is 100% unique to you.
So, if every brain is so unique, it's hard to define a "normal brain," right? That's why we look at the way the brain works and call it 'neurotypical', which is how the majority of people's brains work. That doesn't mean that's the only "right" way.
What are some aspects of life like as a 'neurotypical' person?
As a 'neurotypical' person, you may find that you are less likely to face some of the challenges that 'neurodivergent' people sometimes face. This is because many things in our society, schools, and workplaces are designed to suit the majority, that is, 'neurotypical' people. Let's look at a few examples:
Social adjustment and adaptation
As a 'neurotypical' person, you can usually fit in with other people in society without much difficulty. You don't have a strong desire to pretend to be like others (this is called ``masking''). Society accepts you for who you are most of the time. Therefore, you don't often have fears like, "Will people ostracize me?" "Will they think the wrong way about me?"
Schoolwork and education
Often, the way schools teach and the activities in the classrooms are designed in a way that is easy for 'neurotypical' children to grasp. Therefore, things like staying focused on a lesson and following instructions may not be a big challenge for you.
For example, when a teacher is teaching a lesson at school, it may be relatively easy for a 'neurotypical' child to listen continuously, understand it, and answer questions when asked.
Sensory processing
We are constantly receiving information from our five senses (eyes, ears, nose, tongue, skin). A 'neurotypical' person usually does not have a major problem with the way this information is processed by the brain. This means that they are able to forget about some unpleasant smells, sounds, and touches, or reduce their impact. They are more likely to be able to remain calm and not easily upset (`(overwhelmed)` or `((overstimulated)`) even in crowded, noisy environments.
- Imagine, when you're on a bus, you hear a lot of noise and have to navigate through crowds. A 'neurotypical' person might be able to deal with these things and get to their destination without much difficulty.
Social connections and chat
When we talk to people, when we do business with them, there are many unspoken rules and expectations. For example, things like looking at someone's face when they are talking, and responding appropriately to their conversation. 'Neurotypical' people usually have an easier time understanding these unspoken social rules and behaving accordingly. As a result, social interaction can be a bit easier for them.
Is being 'neurotypical' something that lasts a lifetime? Absolutely not!
No, that's not true. A person who was born 'neurotypical' can have their brain function change later, showing 'neurodivergent' characteristics. We call this "acquired neurodivergence."
Simply put, the way the brain works changes as a result of some influence on it at some point in life. This doesn't have to be a bad thing. It's just a change.
How does this "acquired neurodiversity" occur?
There may be several reasons for this:
- Age-related brain diseases: For example, diseases like Alzheimer's disease permanently change brain function.
- Head injuries and brain injuries: Consider concussions , or serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) , which can cause temporary or permanent memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and behavioral changes.
- Mental health problems or traumatic events: Some mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can alter brain chemistry and function. Similarly, conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) , which is a protective response of the brain to a traumatic event, can also alter brain function.
However, some studies have found that, without these reasons, sometimes very rarely, and for no apparent reason, a 'neurodivergent' person can start to exhibit 'neurodivergent' traits. But that is very rare.
Can 'neurotypical' parents have 'neurodivergent' children?
Yes, it is definitely possible! Also, neurodivergent parents can have neurotypical children. This is not a one-sided thing.
Genetics can affect a person's likelihood of becoming neurodivergent. For example, conditions like Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can run in families. However, experts still don't fully understand how or why some people develop these conditions. And, there are many factors that can play a role, not just genes. So, just because a parent has them doesn't mean their child will inherit them.
The most important thing: this is not a "good-bad" question, just a difference!
When we talk about 'neurotypical' and 'neurodivergent', it's important to remember that this is not a matter of "normal" and "abnormal," or "good" and "bad." It's simply a difference. Being one way is only part of who someone is, and it doesn't determine their full worth.
Think about it, some people write with their right hand, some with their left. It's just a difference, and you can't say one is better or worse than the other. It's the same with this.
If you're 'neurotypical', your brain may work differently than someone who's 'neurodiversary.' But you both have a lot in common. You're both human, and you both want to live happy, healthy lives.
Supporting 'neurodiversities' and creating an environment that suits them is truly beneficial for everyone. We should all strive for a society where 'neurodiversities' and 'neurotypicals' can be equally happy.
Take-Home Message
Okay, so here are some things you need to remember from what we've talked about:
- 'Neurotypical' refers to the general pattern in which the brains of most people develop and function. It is not a medical diagnosis.
- This is not a matter of "normal" versus "abnormal" or "good" versus "bad." It is simply one aspect of the diversity (neurodiversity) that exists in the human brain.
- Being 'neurotypical' may not be a lifelong trait. "Acquired neurodivergence" can cause changes in how a person's brain functions.
- 'Neurotypical' parents can have 'neurodiversant' children, and 'neurodiversant' parents can have 'neurotypical' children.
- The most important thing is to understand, accept, and respect each other's differences. We should all hope for a society that allows for diversity and treats everyone equally.
So, I think you now have a better understanding of the word 'neurotypical'. Being aware of things like this helps us understand each other better.
` Neurotypical, Neurodiversity, Brain development, Normal brain, Nervous system, Mental health
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