How to Define a Neurotypical Mind

Post Reply New Topic

I think I must be NT-NOS.

I came up with what seems to be a simple way to define neurotypicals. There is a definite set of characteristics for those with Aspergers. I decided to just take the opposite of each of our characteristics to find what is needed for a diagnosis of neurotypical syndrome. Thank God I am Asperger's. Below is the list. I have shown it to some neurotypicals including Ph.D. psychologists. On the one hand no neurotypical likes it. On the other hand the more intelligent ones do understand the reasoning behind it as well as finding it difficult to defend against.

Limited loyalty and dependability
Limited honesty
Limited follow through
Sexist, age-ist, culturalist, etc. biases
Does not regard others openly
Often does not speak one's mind honestly
Does not pursue personal theory or perspective
Lack of consideration of details
Lack of sincerity
Often listens with continual judgement or presumption
Tends to "ritualistic small talk," trivial statements, superficial rather than sincere conversation
Not regularly seeking sincere, positive, genuine friends
Lack of determination to seek the truth
Conversation usually with hidden meanings and agendas
Limited vocabulary and interest in words
Lack pictorial metaphor and comprehension
lack of original, unique perspective in problem solving
relatively poor memory and/or recall of details
limited gathering and cataloging information on a topic of interest
lack of persistent thought
Limited knowledge
Poor knowledge of routines
Lack of order to maintain order and accuracy
Unclear values/decision making
Lack of sensitivity to sensory experiences and stimuli
Lack of ability in individual sports and games
Decreased probability of attending university or college after high school

I just love the above, njs, it's as drily funny and accurate as the OP. My diagnosis so far may be subclinical/BAP, but I don't think I display any of the characteristics you list.

Trying to define a "neurotypical" mind is like trying to define a "human" mind.

Many neurotypicals might have the above characteristics--but there are many who don't.

I've had some lousy encounters with people on the Spectrum, as well as neurotypicals.

I take issue with this. While I'd like to think autistics are less prejudiced, in my experience, that's not the case. I've encountered plenty of autistic bigots.

Ironically, the only group that I've encountered who really do seem less prone to prejudice are psychopaths. They'll typically exploit or manipulate anyone, regardless of race, age, sex or cultural background.