Asperger's Syndrome (Asperger's) was a diagnosis for a form of autism characterized by difficulties with social interaction, repetitive behaviors, and intense, narrow interests, but with normal language and cognitive development. It's now considered part of the broader Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in current diagnostic manuals (DSM-5), meaning individuals previously diagnosed with Asperger's are now diagnosed with ASD, often specified as "autism without intellectual disability or significant language delay".
The three main areas of difficulty associated with Asperger's (now part of Autism Spectrum Disorder) are challenges with social interaction/communication, restricted/repetitive behaviors, and highly focused interests, often with sensory sensitivities. People experience this differently, but common signs include trouble with nonverbal cues (eye contact, body language), strict adherence to routines, repetitive movements, and intense absorption in specific topics.
A person with Asperger's (now considered part of the autism spectrum) often experiences challenges with social interaction and communication, such as interpreting nonverbal cues, but typically has average to above-average intelligence, with strengths in deep focus, attention to detail, honesty, and strong memory, often coupled with intense special interests, sensory sensitivities (lights, sounds, textures), and a need for routine. They may seem tactless or blunt due to a lack of social filter, struggle with emotional expression, and find sudden changes overwhelming, leading to anxiety, but they value honesty and loyalty.
Asperger syndrome is not a curable condition. However, being one of the milder forms in the Autism Spectrum Disorders, with little language development difficulties and normal or high IQ, this disorder allows a child to live a normal or near normal life.
The principal difference between autism and what was once diagnosed as Asperger's is that the latter features milder symptoms and an absence of language delays. Most children who previously received an Asperger's diagnosis had strong language skills, but may have had difficulty “fitting in” with their peers.
Physical Symptoms:
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.
Most cases are diagnosed between the ages of five and nine, with some diagnosed as early as age three.
On average, while most do have at least one friend, Autistic youth often have fewer friends than non-Autistic youth. They may also find the friendships that they do have confusing, overwhelming, or difficult to navigate (Petrina et al., 2014).
Famous People with Autism Spectrum Disorder
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.
Some of the behaviors in autistic children that some may interpret as bossy or controlling may include telling people what to do or how to behave. This may be evident in relationships, such as with family, school peers, and other social gatherings.
Empathy. People with an Asperger profile might not be recognized for their empathetic qualities, due to variation in the ways empathy is felt and expressed. Some people feel deep empathy, but do not outwardly communicate these sentiments through facial expressions or language.
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.
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.
Behavioral approaches have the most evidence for treating symptoms of ASD. They have become widely accepted among educators and healthcare professionals and are used in many schools and treatment clinics. A notable behavioral treatment for people with ASD is called applied behavior analysis (ABA).
Those with Asperger's syndrome, in contrast, must by definition have suffered no cognitive delay during their first 3 years of life. This means that they will usually have at least a “normal” IQ. In some cases, their IQ may be very high, even in the genius range. There are, however, different kinds of smarts.
As an autistic person, it can sometimes be difficult to feel like you 'fit in' or to find your place in the world. Because of this, many autistic people can end up being socially isolated and lonely. Some autistic people may enjoy being alone, while others may want to socialise but may not know how to.
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.
Autistic strengths
Other Common Tests Used to Assess Asperger's
A: Both parents can carry genes associated with autism, even if they don't show any signs themselves. These genes can be passed down to children through either the mother, the father, or both.
Featured celebrities with autism Anthony Hopkins Daryl Hannah Dan Aykroyd Courtney Love Elon Musk Susan Boyle Historical figures with (suspected) autism Albert Einstein Emily Dickinson Andy Warhol Other notable autistic icons Autistic actors and comedians If you often relate to neurodivergent stories…
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.