Yes, people with Asperger's (now part of Autism Spectrum Disorder) often think a lot, frequently experiencing intense, detailed, and repetitive thought patterns, overthinking social situations, spiraling into worst-case scenarios (catastrophizing), and deeply focusing on specific interests, which stems from their unique "details-before-the-concept" thinking style and a need to process extensive information. This can manifest as constant internal scripts for conversations, deep dives into topics, or significant anxiety from overanalyzing the world.
High-functioning Asperger's (now part of Autism Spectrum Disorder) symptoms involve strong language/intelligence but social communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, and restricted interests, including poor eye contact, literal thinking, trouble with sarcasm, intense focus on specific topics (hyperfocus), needing strict routines, and feeling easily overwhelmed by social situations or sensory input like lights/sounds, leading to anxiety and isolation.
Clumsy, uncoordinated movements, including difficulty with handwriting. Difficulty managing emotions, sometimes leading to verbal or behavioral outbursts, self-injurious behaviors, or tantrums. Not understanding other peoples' feelings or perspectives. Hypersensitivity to lights, sounds, and textures.
People with Asperger syndrome see, hear and feel the world differently to other people. They don't have the learning disabilities that many autistic people have, but they may have specific learning difficulties. Asperger syndrome generally involves: Difficulty with social interactions.
They can be quite rigid in their thinking, seeing things in only one way, or they may be very concrete and literal in their thinking, only seeing things in "black and white" terms, with little or no understanding of the more ambiguous "gray" in between--like knowing when and where to apply a rule such as saying, " ...
Very much so. Anxiety disorders are common among autistic adults and children with autism, and anxiety and depression can both amplify excessive thinking. Stressful social situations or unregulated sensory processing can trigger overthinking loops, especially without clear coping mechanisms in place.
Around 90% of autism cases are attributed to genetic factors, meaning autism is highly heritable, with many different genes contributing, rather than a single cause, often interacting with environmental influences during early brain development, though specific environmental factors don't cause it but can increase risk. Twin studies show strong genetic links, with concordance rates between 60-90% in identical twins, and research points to complex interactions of many genes and prenatal/perinatal factors.
Physical Symptoms:
The "6-second rule" for autism is a communication strategy where a speaker pauses for about six seconds after asking a question or giving information, giving the autistic person extra time to process it without feeling rushed, which helps reduce anxiety and allows for a more thoughtful response, reducing frustration for both parties. Instead of repeating or rephrasing, which can be confusing, you wait, and if needed, repeat the exact same words after the pause.
Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome typically exhibit exceptional memory, strong work ethic, and unique problem-solving abilities. Additionally, their loyalty, honesty, and acute sensitivity contribute positively to their interpersonal relationships and work environments.
5 things to NEVER say to someone with Autism:
Some people with Asperger's:
Computer science is a good choice because it is very likely that many of the best programmers have either Asperger's syndrome or some of its traits. Other good majors are: accounting, engineering, library science, and art with an emphasis on commercial art and drafting.
There aren't any drugs approved by the FDA to specifically treat Asperger's or autism spectrum disorder. But some medications can help with related symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Your doctor may prescribe some of these: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Individuals with ASDs commonly have a low frustration tolerance and significant irritability. They may report that they alternate from calm to extreme anger very quickly. There have been several studies that suggest individuals with ASDs have difficulty understanding and interpreting their own emotions.
Children with autism may exhibit rigidity, inflexibility and certain types of repetitive behavior such as: Insistence on following a specific routine. Having difficulty accepting changes in the schedule. A strong preoccupation with a particular interest.
Chinning is a form of repetitive self-stimulatory behavior (stimming) that you may notice in children or adults with autism. It involves pressing, rubbing, or holding the chin against objects, surfaces, or even hands to gain sensory input or comfort.
Many techniques are available to those who suffer from Asperger's to help them control their anger. These include learning to be self-aware of their behavior, relaxation techniques, self-talking, using visual imagery, and attending anger management classes or cognitive behavioral therapy.
Dan Aykroyd, the famous actor and comedian renowned for his roles in films like Ghostbusters, has had a remarkable journey with Asperger's syndrome.
Emotional expression might be different, with some autistic individuals finding it easier to show affection through actions or shared interests rather than overt verbal or physical displays. Sensory sensitivities can play a significant role in comfort levels with physical touch, environments, and shared spaces.
Autistic strengths
Why is autism on the rise? Autism prevalence has risen due to increased awareness of autism, broader diagnostic criteria for autism, improved screening tools and standardized screening processes. These factors have led to earlier detection and more diagnoses.
Donald Triplett, autism's 'Case 1,' dies at 89. Triplett gained media attention for his autism later in life, and he became the face of the effort to research the lives of older adults with autism.
Yes, a majority of autism cases are linked to inherited genetic mutations that run in families. Can You Develop Autism? Autism takes root during fetal development. No evidence suggests you can develop autism later in life.