Definition
Neurotypical describes a person whose neurological development follows the typical developmental trajectory, without autism, ADHD, or other significant neurological differences. The term emerged from autistic community writing to name what had previously been assumed as the default.
Why It Matters
Naming neurotypicality allows the autistic and neurodivergent communities to describe social expectations and systems designed for a specific neurotype without treating that neurotype as the only valid one.
Common Misconception
Neurotypical does not mean normal in a value-laden sense. It is a descriptor, not a superlative. Neurotypical people have their own challenges and blind spots, including difficulty understanding neurodivergent people.