Neurotypical/new-row-TIP-ih-kal/

Neurotypical refers to individuals whose neurological development and cognitive functioning fall within what society considers the 'typical' or 'normal' range. These individuals do not have autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other neurodevelopmental differences. The term serves as a neutral counterpart to 'neurodivergent' and helps avoid framing neurological differences as deviations from an unstated norm.

The term neurotypical was coined by the autistic community to create more balanced language around neurological differences. Instead of labeling autistic people as 'abnormal,' it establishes that there are different types of normal, with neurotypical being just one variety of human neurology.

Inclusive Communication for Neurotypical Allies

• Use identity-respecting language; ask for preferences
• Avoid policing tone, eye contact, or body language
• Support accommodations and normalize their use in shared spaces
• Focus on accessibility of environments, not "fixing" people

Myths vs Facts

• Myth: "Neurotypical means superior/healthy."
  • Fact: It denotes statistical typicality, not value or health status.
• Myth: "If it works for me, it should work for everyone."
  • Fact: Brains differ; design for variability.

Quick Tips (For Allies)

• Ask and honor communication preferences (text first, cameras optional)
• Provide written follow-ups and clear agendas by default
• Make accommodations standard options available to everyone

While not a formal diagnostic category, neurotypical is used in research to describe control groups or to distinguish between different populations in neurodiversity studies. It represents the statistical majority in terms of neurological functioning patterns.

Sometimes abbreviated as 'NT' in online communities. The term intentionally avoids value judgments, presenting neurotypical as one type of neurology rather than the 'correct' or 'superior' type.