ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and OCD all belong to a group of conditions called neurodevelopmental disorders. These conditions affect the neurological system, affecting how someone thinks, moves, and socializes. Each condition on the neurodivergent spectrum has a wide range of functioning levels and can seem drastically different from person to person. One thing is certain, though; they cause challenges when trying to interact with a world designed for those who may be more “neurotypical.” The differences between neurotypical vs. neurodivergent people can be subtle or noticeable, varying from person to person.
Family First offers neurodevelopmental treatment for adolescents in South Florida. We celebrate neurodiversity and help teens 12-18 learn how to interact with the world around them with fewer challenges.
Understanding Neurodiversity
The term “neurodiversity” is used to describe all humans. Every person is different, having unique tastes, dislikes, talents, abilities, and ways of thinking. Just as physical characteristics vary, so do neurological processes. The neurodiversity movement recognizes these cognitive differences and celebrates them rather than trying to fit everyone into the same mold.
Recognizing and celebrating neurodiversity requires you to think of everyone—not just those with neurodevelopmental diagnoses—on a spectrum. If you, your neighbor, your child, and someone you work with will all receive a task, you’ll all read the instructions differently and approach the task differently, even if you end up with the same result.
Neurotypical vs. Neurodivergent People: Key Differences
It’s difficult to assign someone as neurotypical or neurodivergent using the neurodiverse model. However, it’s clear when you step back and see how the world exists today. Those who are considered neurodivergent might struggle with things that neurotypical individuals wouldn’t get tangled up in.
Sensory Processing Issues
Noises, textures, and bright lights can be overstimulating for someone with sensory processing issues, which is commonly seen in neurodivergent individuals. Neurotypical individuals may not even notice these things or be bothered by them. Loud or competing sounds in a store, itchy fabrics inside a uniform, or unfamiliar textures on a limited menu could be overwhelming to a neurodivergent person.
Social Skills
Recognizing subtle social cues, like facial expressions or body language, can be extremely challenging for neurodivergent people. Neurotypical people seem to recognize these cues without really thinking about them, but they could make little sense to someone who doesn’t instinctively understand them. Plus, some, like eye contact, can be uncomfortable for neurodivergent people.
Communication Styles
Just like neurodivergent people might have a harder time reading social cues, they may struggle to communicate with others. Some have a hard time verbalizing at all (including both selective mutism and shutting down when overwhelmed). Others communicate very directly or bluntly—some might even consider it rude—even if they don’t intend it to be negative.
Flexibility and Adaptability
It’s often easier for a neurotypical person to change plans or adapt to new situations, but it can be anxiety-inducing and challenging for those on the neurodivergent spectrum. This is because routine and structure are often very important coping mechanisms for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Mental Health Conditions
Neurotypical and neurodivergent people both experience mental health issues, but they might experience them differently. Specialists might have a hard time determining a diagnosis for neurodivergent individuals since symptoms can overlap. Neurological differences also mean that symptoms can be triggered by more minor things, and episodes can follow different patterns.
Just because someone is considered neurodivergent doesn’t mean they are limited in their abilities. Often, they’ll have their own way of coping with stressful or distracting situations in order to remain calm and focused. Stepping back and recognizing when someone needs some extra space or time to process can go a long way in creating an inclusive environment for neurodivergent individuals.
Learn More About Neurodivergent Behaviors in Adolescents
A World Built for Neurotypical People
Many of the daily challenges neurodivergent people face stem from the world we live in. When you walk outside or go into a crowded store, how much noise do you hear? Do you have to worry about whether the lunch options will feel safe to eat? Did you have a hard time keeping your grades up in school, even if you understood all the lessons perfectly well?
Neurotypical people simply think and process things differently, and the societies we live in tend to favor how their brains work. However, it causes too much difficulty for a lot of people who are neurodivergent—students, barbers, teachers, librarians, artists, anyone in any profession—to navigate without support or learning how to adapt.
Is Your Teen Neurodivergent?
Many neurodevelopmental conditions are recognized during childhood and adolescence. It’s important to note that each person is unique and may not exhibit the same behaviors or challenges as someone else with the same diagnosis. However, finding support early can help your teen learn to navigate a world that’s primarily designed for more neurotypical individuals.
It might be time to find support if:
- Your teen struggles with social interactions and making friends
- They have difficulty focusing in class or completing tasks
- Sensory issues significantly impact their daily life
- They have repetitive behaviors or obsessions that interfere with daily activities
If you suspect your teen may be neurodivergent, speak to a professional who specializes in neurodevelopmental disorders. Family First’s team of experts can provide a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plan for your child.
Celebrating and Embracing Neurodiversity at Family First
We provide neurodiversity-affirming care at Family First Adolescent Services. Your teen doesn’t need to be “fixed” or “cured.” They need the time, space, and structure to learn how to navigate the neurotypical world around them. Our staff includes specialists with deep experience in helping neurodivergent teens. There are two levels of care we offer in South Florida.
- Pinnacle Day Program is an outpatient service at our Ft. Lauderdale site. Here, we offer treatment for teen boys and girls from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays.
- The NEST Program is our residential service for teen boys. At our Palm Beach Gardens campus, they receive 24/7 support and stay in homelike accommodations.
Contact Us Now
You can help your teen learn to navigate the world with fewer challenges. Neurodevelopmental treatment at Family First offers a holistic approach, addressing all aspects of your teen’s well-being. Our experienced team provides evidence-based therapies and personalized support to help your teen thrive. Call 888.904.5947 or contact us online to get started.
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