UNDERSTANDING NORMALITY AND NEUROTYPICALLITY

Normality

The state of having thoughts, feelings and behaviours that are considered common and acceptable

Abnormality

Deviating from the norm, usually in a way that is undesirable

Neurotypicality

Used to describe individuals who display neurological and cognitive functioning that is typical or expected

Neurodiversity

Variations in neurological development and functioning within and between groups of people

Characteristics of neurotypical individuals

- Good communication skills

- Social skills similar to peers

- Functioning in distracting environments

- Focus for prolonged periods

- Adapt to changes in routine

Adaptive

Being able to a just to the environment appropriately and function effectively

Maladaptive

Being unable to adapt to the environment appropriately and function effectively

Adaptive emotions

Being able to effectively regulate and display emotions

Maladaptive emotions

Being unable to effectively regulate and display emotions

Adaptive behaviours

Activities that enhance an individuals ability to meet the changing demands of life

Maladaptive behaviours

Activities that hinders an individuals ability to meet the changing demands of life

Adaptive cognitions

awareness and knowledge that enables you to adjust to different environments and situations

Maladaptive cognitions

lacking awareness and knowledge making it hard to adjust to different environments and situations