neurotypical

Neurotypical is a nonclinical term used to describe individuals whose neurological development and functioning align with the norms commonly observed in a given culture for age-appropriate social interaction, communication, sensory processing, and behavior. It is not a medical diagnosis or a fixed category; rather, it is a descriptive label used within the neurodiversity framework to contrast with neurodivergent conditions.

The term is typically used to distinguish from neurodivergent people, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurodevelopmental differences. In research and clinical settings, "neurotypical" is often used to denote a comparison group or baseline, such as neurotypical controls in studies of cognition or perception.

Origin and considerations: The phrase arose within neurodiversity and autistic communities in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as a counterpart to "neurodivergent." Its use is debated: supporters view it as a useful shorthand for discussing variation in cognition and social experience, while critics warn that it can imply a normative standard and stigmatize individuals who do not align with that standard. Cultural and environmental factors shape what is considered "typical," so the label is context-dependent and not universal. Because it refers to a spectrum rather than a medical category, it should be used with sensitivity to individual experiences.