Atypical

"Atypical" refers to behaviors, cognitive processes, or neurological patterns that differ from the norm in the general population. In autism, this term can describe variations in social interaction, communication, sensory processing, and cognitive functioning. It can also be used as a way to refer to individuals with autism, acknowledging their neurodiverse characteristics.[Read in more detail]

PlainSpeak "Atypical" means that a autistic might think, act, or process things differently from most people. It can also be a way to describe someone with autism, highlighting the unique ways their brain works.[Read more PlainSpeak version]

Atypical

 

In the context of autism, "atypical" refers to behaviors, traits, or abilities that deviate from those commonly observed in neurotypical (NT) individuals.  These atypical behaviors can encompass a range of manifestations, including repetitive movements (stereotypies), challenges in social communication and interaction, sensory sensitivities, and intense, focused interests in specific topics.

The term "atypical" is utilized to denote these behaviors because they diverge from the normative patterns expected in NT populations. For instance:

• Repetitive Movements: These may involve neural circuit dysregulation in the basal ganglia and motor cortex.
• Social Communication Difficulties: These can be attributed to differences in the neural substrates involved in social cognition and language processing, such as the prefrontal cortex and superior temporal sulcus.
• Sensory Sensitivities: These may result from atypical processing in sensory integration areas, including the thalamus and primary sensory cortices.
• Intense Interests: These could be linked to heightened activity and connectivity within the striatum and prefrontal cortex, contributing to focused attention and interest.

However, it is important to note that the term "atypical" should not be used in a negative or stigmatizing way, as autistics have unique strengths and abilities that may not be considered typical but are still valuable and important. Understanding the neural basis of these atypical behaviors can help in developing supportive interventions and highlighting the positive aspects of neurodiversity.

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Read more on Atypical: [PlainSpeak Version] [For the Academic/Scientific Audience], [A Simple Definition]

Atypical

 

Plainspeak. Plain Language Version

What "Atypical" Means in Autism

In autism, "atypical" means having behaviors or traits that are different from what most people without autism (neurotypicals) have. These different behaviors can include things like:

• Repetitive Movements: Doing the same movements over and over.
• Social Communication Challenges: Finding it hard to talk to and interact with other people.
• Sensory Sensitivities: Being very sensitive to lights, sounds, or other sensory inputs.
• Intense Interests: Having very strong interests in specific topics.

We use the word "atypical" because these behaviors are not common in people without autism. But it's important to remember that "atypical" doesn't mean bad. Autistic people have special strengths and abilities that are different but still important and valuable. Understanding these differences helps us support autistic people better and appreciate their unique contributions.

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Read more on Atypical: [PlainSpeak Version] [For the Academic/Scientific Audience], [A Simple Definition]