Neurodivergent vs. Neurotypical: Understanding the Differences and Embracing Neurodiversity
Have you heard the term neurodivergent? What about neurotypical? If you have, you may be wondering what they mean or which may apply to you. These terms help us understand and respect the different ways brains can function. Let’s break it down to help you learn what neurodivergent vs neurotypical actually is.
What Does “Neurotypical” Mean?
Neurotypical refers to individuals whose brain development and functioning align with what is considered the societal “norm”. This typically means people who do not have diagnoses like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other cognitive variations. Neurotypical individuals usually process social cues, sensory input, and executive functioning tasks in a way that is generally expected and supported by mainstream systems, like schools and workplaces.
TL;DR Neurotypical brains are often the ones that the world was built for, from classroom settings to office environments, and social experiences.
Being neurotypical doesn’t necessarily mean life is without challenges, but it does mean the external environment is generally more accommodating to one's needs and communication style. This “default fit” can influence everything from access to education and employment to how one is perceived socially.
What Does “Neurodivergent” Mean?
Nuerodivergent is used to describe individuals whose brains function differently from what is considered the “norm”. This includes a wide range of cognitive diversity such as:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia
Dyscalculia
Tourette Syndrome
Sensory Processing Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Being neurodivergent doesn’t mean that person is “lacking” in anything. The term highlights the diversity in how humans think, process, and engage in the world.
Neurodivergence is not always visible and may not look the same from person to person. Some people may have obvious external behaviors; others may have learned to “mask” or hide their true selves to fit into social or work environments.
The Origin of Neurodivergence
The term neurodivergent was coined by sociologist Judy Singer in the late 1990s, as part of the larger neurodiversity movement. This movement emphasized that neurological differences are a natural and valuable part of human variation, not deficits to be fixed.
The neurodiversity paradigm shifts the focus from “What’s wrong with this person?” to “What kind of environment does this person need to thrive?” It challenges the deficit-based models that have long dominated education, healthcare, and employment systems.
Why It Matters
Recognizing the difference between neurotypical and neurodivergent doesn’t just help us understand each other better, it helps us build more inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.
In schools, workplaces, and relationships, making space for neurodivergent individuals can mean:
Offering flexible work and learning arrangements
Providing sensory-friendly environments
Using clear and direct communication
Valuing different forms of expression
Avoiding assumptions about behavior or intention
Encouraging a strengths-based approach rather than focusing on “fixing” perceived deficits
When environments are designed with neurodiversity in mind, everyone benefits. For instance, quiet workspaces or visual schedules can support neurodivergent employees but also improve focus for neurotypical individuals.
Embracing Neurodiversity
The goal isn't to separate people into categories but to foster a culture of inclusion. Everyone’s brain works a little differently, and neurodivergence is just one part of the wide spectrum of human experience. By acknowledging the diversity in brain function, we can challenge stigmas, expand compassion, and tap into a fuller range of human potential.
Embracing neurodiversity means listening to lived experiences, supporting individual needs, and advocating for equity, not just equality. It requires asking thoughtful questions: Are our systems truly accessible? Do our expectations allow for different styles of participation? Are we measuring success in a way that reflects diverse strengths?
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Understanding the terms neurotypical and neurodivergent is just the beginning. Whether you identify as neurodivergent, neurotypical, or are still figuring it out, the most important takeaway is this: every brain brings something valuable to the table.
If you’re a parent, teacher, employer, or simply a curious human being, continuing to educate yourself on neurodiversity is one of the most powerful steps you can take toward inclusion and empathy.
