Everyone's Normal Is Different

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I've been working on creating a replacement for the DSM-5, and it's about 75% complete. During this process, I've noticed that many traits associated with autism often stem from environmental mismatches or misinterpretations by non-autistic diagnosticians or clinicians. When these misunderstandings are removed, autism starts to show itself more as variations in monotropism. Essentially, the autistic brain is wired differently, with the clear purpose of improving hyperfocus. To balance the strain of hyperfocus, other systems adapt--for example, stimming acts like a "metronome" to stabilize focus, PDA helps protect against task transitions that feel too sudden or overwhelming, and direct communication reduces cognitive load while improving clarity.

Like anything shaped by evolution, there are trade-offs. For example, heightened sensory awareness or sensitivity to proprioception may feel uncomfortable at times, but these are part of the cost for the ability to focus deeply and for extended periods.

Because of these insights, I've shifted toward a neuroaffirming approach in psychology. I've gone a step further by abandoning the idea of "normal" as a baseline. Instead, my DSM-5 replacement and therapeutic methods focus on each person's neurofunctionality as the starting point. The goal is recalibration--optimizing how each individual's brain works in ways that make life better for them.

For example:

* A neurotypical, extroverted person going through a divorce might become withdrawn and bitter. Therapy for them would focus on rebuilding social skills, encouraging them to attend gatherings, and helping them reconnect with their usual, social self.

* An autistic person who can't sleep and has lost interest in hobbies might benefit from rebuilding a routine that works for them, exploring what they used to enjoy, and finding ways to reconnect with their unique passions.

Everyone's baseline is different, and so recalibration needs to be just as individualized.

In all my research, I've never found a single person who fits a standard of "normal." Humanity itself exists on a spectrum, with different traits--like focus, attention, empathy, sociability, or sensory sensitivity--highlighted in different ways. The real issue isn't the individual's neurology but how society fails to place people in roles where they can thrive. We're not all meant to do the same things, and that diversity is exactly how it should be.

Very good Observation...and most Poignant for Neurodiverse persons.

I think you make a very valid point; everyone diagnosed with autism has a varying level of autism with different strengths and weaknesses. Every doctor who diagnoses someone with autism is different They may use the same criteria but their interpretation is different. Everyone has their own personal issues they are dealing with unrelated to autism.

Welcome to Wrong Planet.

Do I think Autism is the next step in human evolution?
No, I believe we have always been here in one way or another. Thinking we are not just different from neurotypicals but ahead of them is Autism supremacy. Supremest beliefs have a long history of causing harm.

Do I believe in neuroaffirming care?
Most definitely yes.

Do you think such conditions described as cooccurring conditions such as epilepsy or intellectual disability are separate conditions of can be autistic traits?

It seems there might be some misunderstanding. I don't view autism as a sign of supremacy or the next step in human evolution. Autism is simply a natural variation in how human minds function, particularly in how they focus.

That said, it's a bit frustrating when my words are distilled into questions I never posed. This approach forces me to spend extra energy clarifying and defending a position I don't hold. Let's aim for a more constructive dialogue without relying on such tactics.

Neuroaffirming care makes sense because every brain is different. A standardized, one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work and can even have harmful consequences, as we've seen in modern psychology.

As for co-occurring conditions like epilepsy or cognitive impairment being linked to autism, my research hasn't uncovered evidence supporting anything beyond correlation. For instance, Anthony Hopkins has ASD but shows no signs of epilepsy or cognitive impairment. Autism appears to "wire" the brain for hyperfocus. Other differences--whether adaptations for this design, incidental side effects, or unrelated genetic variations--should not be conflated with autism itself.

Environmental mismatches is another critical factor. For example, children raised with ABA therapy may develop strong social skills but later as adults struggle with identity suppression, leading to devastating outcomes. This isn't a consequence of autism but of the environment failing to support their authentic selves. Anyone, regardless of neurotype, can experience these challenges if their identity is stifled.

The therapeutic framework I've developed distinguishes traits without locking into rigid interpretations. It evolves with our understanding of psychiatric conditions, making it more adaptable and reflective of neurofunctional diversity. This approach has the potential to guide psychology toward becoming a more comprehensive science by connecting symptomology to neurofuntionality where appropriate.