In this article I explors the concept of a “normal brain” from my perspective as an autistic person. I argue that neurodiversity and variations in brain structures and functions challenge the notion of a single “normal” brain. At the same time, I acknowledge that the concept of a normal brain is valuable for providing care and support. I advocate for embracing this diversity for a more inclusive society.
As an individual with autism, I often find myself questioning the existence of a “normal brain”. This concept is deeply ingrained in the medical and scientific world, as well as in broader society. However, increasing neuroscientific research and the growing awareness of neurodiversity are raising new questions. In this article, I explore both sides of this debate, providing concrete and realistic examples from my own life and that of others, and explaining why I question the existence of a single “normal” brain.
Arguments Against the Existence of a “Normal Brain”
Neuroscientific Findings
Increasing neuroscientific research suggests that the idea of a single “normal” brain may no longer be sustainable. For instance, the Human Connectome Project has shown that even among healthy individuals, patterns of brain connections can vary significantly. No two brains are exactly alike, and this variation is a natural and essential part of human biology. In my own life, I notice that my way of thinking and processing information often deviates from what others consider “normal”. For example, I have a strong visual memory and can recall detailed images, something many people around me cannot do. This unique ability has helped me solve more complex problems by recognizing patterns that others might overlook.
Variability in Education and Work
In schools and workplaces, we see that people learn and work in different ways. Some students learn better visually, while others learn audibly. In the workplace, some people function well in a busy environment, while others need silence to be productive. As a student, I noticed that I absorbed information much better when I could see it visually, for example through diagrams and graphs, rather than just listening to oral explanations. When I’m working on my blog, I appreciate the opportunity to work in a quiet space, as too many stimuli affect my concentration. This contrasts with some other people who seek out a busy and lively environment like a café terrace to write or read. These personal experiences show that there is no single norm for how the brain should work in learning and work situations.
Benefits of Neurodiversity
The neurodiversity movement shows that neurodiversity has many benefits. People with autism often have exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills. Diverse cognitive styles within a population can lead to innovation and better adaptation to changing circumstances. Different ways of thinking can contribute to creative solutions for complex problems. During my career in various roles, I have noticed that my analytical skills and eye for detail give me an advantage in tasks that require precision. For example, I can quickly detect errors in others’ texts that these people often overlook. In addition, in team projects at college, I often proposed creative solutions that my neurotypical fellow students had not considered, which contributed to original and good results.
Media and Statistics
Increasing media content emphasizes the unique contributions of neurodivergent individuals. Documentaries and personal stories show how people with different neurological profiles bring unique perspectives and talents into their communities. Films and books are also increasingly portraying characters who deviate from the “normal” brain, emphasizing their unique abilities and perspectives. In addition, statistical norms describe averages, but these averages do not reflect the reality of individual variation. Even in a normal distribution, there are always people who deviate from the average, and these deviations are essential for the diversity of human experience. My own experiences confirm this: although I deviate from the norm in some areas, I still contribute in a valuable way to my volunteer work and my community. My unique perspectives and skills are appreciated by other people and staff members, demonstrating that deviation from the statistical norm is not necessarily a limitation, but can indeed be an enrichment.
Arguments for the Existence of a “Normal Brain”
Although there are strong arguments against the existence of a “normal brain”, there are also arguments that support its existence. These arguments can be found primarily in neuroscientific research, medical diagnostics, education and work, media, and daily social interaction.
Statistical Approaches
Many studies use statistical approaches to describe average brain functions. These averages provide a picture of what is considered “normal” within a population. Neuropsychological tests such as IQ tests, for example, are based on statistical norms that define an average score. People who deviate significantly from this average are considered deviant. In my youth, my lower scores on performance tests were seen as deviant, leading to further investigations and eventually a number of diagnoses, including my diagnosis of autism. These statistical norms helped identify my unique needs and provide appropriate support. Although I recognize the value of these approaches, I believe they only tell part of the story.
Diagnostic Criteria
Diagnostic criteria for mental disorders and neurological conditions are based on the idea of a normally functioning brain. The autism diagnosis can also be understood from a ratio of normal versus deviation. Diagnostic manuals such as the DSM-5 and the ICD use these criteria to identify and classify deviations. My diagnosis of autism was based on these criteria, which helped understand specific characteristics of my behavior and cognitive functions. This made it possible to get targeted treatments and interventions, such as psychoeducation and solution-focused system therapy, which have helped me better cope with daily challenges. Although these criteria were useful, they also made me realize that there is much more variation than what is considered “normal”.
Support Programs and Treatments
Many support programs and treatment options are based on the idea of a normally functioning brain. When certain cognitive and behavioral characteristics deviate significantly from the average, they can be considered deviant, which can lead to the diagnosis of a disorder and the assignment of appropriate care and support. In my personal experience, having an autism diagnosis has led to access to specific support. Some students with autism can use extra explanation or time during exams, for instance, I was allowed to use a laptop instead of having to write by hand. I would not have received these adjustments without the concept of a normally functioning brain as a reference point. However, I now wonder whether this support should also be available without the need to meet a specific diagnosis.
Education and Work
In everyday life, our education and work systems are designed around a certain idea of normality. Education systems have standards and curricula that are tailored to the average student. Children who do not fit within this norm often receive extra support or special education programs. During my college period, I occasionally received extra guidance, such as psychotherapy to discuss social frictions, and adapted teaching methods from a mental vulnerability perspective. This helped me learn at my own pace and utilize my strengths, such as my analytical skills. In the workplace, roles and tasks are often designed for the average employee, with deviations seen as challenges that need to be addressed. However, my experience has taught me that these systems should be more flexible and inclusive to truly meet the needs of all individuals.
Media and Popular Culture
Traditional media play a big role in reinforcing the idea of a normal brain. Films, TV shows, and literature often portray characters who meet the norms of what is considered “normal”, while deviant characters are often portrayed as eccentric or problematic. As a person with autism, I have noticed that the representation of autism in the media is often stereotypical and one-sided. Documentaries and films that show the daily life of autistic people, for example, can help raise awareness and promote understanding. However, I believe that these representations are often too simplistic and reinforce the idea of a “normal” brain rather than challenge it.
Social Norms and Communication
In everyday life, there are unwritten rules and expectations about how people behave and interact with each other. These norms are based on what is considered normal. People who deviate significantly from these behavioral norms, as is often the case with autism, can experience difficulties in social situations and may be perceived as deviant by the wider society. My own experiences in social situations are an example of this. Not always being able to interpret non-verbal signals and reacting differently in conversations can lead to misunderstandings and social isolation. Knowing these norms, however, helps me develop strategies to better cope with these situations, such as practicing social scripts and learning body language. This shows that the variation in communication styles is significant and that there is not one “normal” way of communication.
Conclusion
The question of whether there is such a thing as a “normal” brain is complex and multifaceted. While neuroscientific research and the rise of the neurodiversity paradigm demonstrate that there is a great variation in brain structures and functions, the concept of a normal brain remains valuable from a practical and supportive standpoint. Statistical norms, diagnostic criteria, social and cultural expectations, representations in the media, and daily interactions all support the idea that there is a certain standard of how a brain should function. These norms help us provide care and support to those who deviate significantly from the average, but they can also contribute to stigmatization and misunderstandings about what it means to be “normal”. As an adult with autism, I believe that the existence of a normal brain helps us identify and address specific needs and challenges, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive society that values the unique contributions of all individuals. Yet, I question the existence of a single “normal” brain. The diversity in human experiences, thinking styles, and cognitive functions is too great to fit within one norm. Embracing this diversity can enrich our understanding of the human experience and benefit us all.
The European Autist 