When you ask psychologist what is difference between Aspergian and neurotypical, psychologist is often unwilling or unable to respond in clear terms. I will here try to explain what lies in centre of neurotypical civilisation. What you might hear is that neurotypicals care about social codes, politeness and being together. That is not that simple.

To be Aspergian is like exploring new planet. We are aware of ourselves when we grow up, but not our surroundings.

Neurotypicals are other way around. They learn to be aware of themselves, but are naturally aware of their surroundings and other people in it. As well as their social position after initial coping.

That is key to understand them. Socialisation.

They form natural hierarchies. Your position in hierarchy is determined by your peers, and you could chose to accept it or to change social group to be with. Your position is also affected by externalities. For example, Claudius (reigned 41-54 AD) was born with Tourette's Syndrome but managed to become Roman Emperor.

Thus, neurotypicals are naturally inclined to elect alpha males and alpha females, as well as omega males and omega females. They chose latter from people who are different in some way or another, because group forms itself by defining itself in contrast to surrounding world. That is basis for family, for tribe, for nation and for corporation.

Without understanding this, we cannot understand neurotypical way of thinking. To us, society is naturally flat and composed of individuals. For neurotypicals, it is hierarchical and composed of formally or informally structured groups.

I agree, to adolescent NTs popularity and social standing is the most important aspect in their lives. Even more so than their schoolwork or jobs, or anything else that is actually important.