Chapter 1: Defining Normality

What does it truly mean to be “normal”? My Facebook bio cheekily states, “Not normal, whatever that is.” As a father who prioritizes his children’s joy over traditional adult pursuits, my experiences have been unconventional. I work primarily in elementary education and childcare, all while navigating life as an autistic man raising two autistic kids who aren’t my biological children. Trust me, I’ve frequently been told I’m not “normal.” But what does that label really signify?

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Section 1.1: The Standard Definition of Normal

According to the Oxford Dictionary, “normal” means “conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected.” In our society, a normal individual is generally perceived as one who does not face mental or physical health challenges. In educational settings, a normal student is expected to sit quietly, pay attention, and follow instructions. In the professional realm, a normal employee performs their duties effectively without requiring special accommodations. However, is this truly reflective of today’s realities?

I anticipated presenting statistics indicating that a significant number of people struggle with mental health issues, but my research revealed that less than 25% of individuals are officially diagnosed with such disorders. This figure does not consider undiagnosed conditions; I suspect that, if everyone were assessed, the percentage would rise considerably. Hence, those with mental health disorders might be categorized as “not normal,” at least by conventional standards.

Subsection 1.1.1: A Personal Perspective on Normalcy

For me, this classification feels inaccurate. The majority of my acquaintances either have autism, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. In this context, my own experiences align with what many would consider “normal.” The term normal is a relative concept; individuals can be more or less normal than one another. Ultimately, most of us fall short of society’s rigid definition, which paradoxically suggests that we, in our diversity, embody the true essence of normality.

Chapter 2: Perspectives on Normality and Individuality

Normality is not a fixed definition; it varies dramatically based on cultural and social contexts. I recall a message from a Facebook group member questioning the authenticity of a writer who shared experiences about being a nudist as a child. This individual’s background shaped his view of nudity as completely normal within his community. While his experiences may seem strange to many, they reflect a reality where different standards exist.

I don’t fit the conventional mold that society typically designates as normal, and frankly, I have no desire to conform. I am unapologetically myself, refusing to mold my identity to fit societal expectations. While some may pretend to be what they are not, their true selves will eventually emerge, often leading them to feel even less normal in others' eyes.

Thank you for taking the time to read this! I hope you discovered something valuable in this exploration of normality and individuality.