"Asperger's" (Asperger's Syndrome) is no longer a separate diagnosis but is now part of the broader Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors/interests, with historically Asperger's referring to individuals on the spectrum with average to above-average intelligence and no significant language delays, but now simply described as ASD without accompanying intellectual or language impairments.
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.
Children with Asperger's Syndrome often show no delays in their overall language development (e.g., grammar skills and vocabulary), but can have trouble using language in a social context. They may have average intelligence but can have problems with attention span and organization.
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.
Some people with Asperger's:
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.
The different types of autism include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), autistic disorder (classic autism), Asperger's syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), and Rett syndrome.
Signs of High-Functioning Autism in Children
May appear more mature for their age and have above-average intelligence. A tendency to avoid eye contact. Trouble deviating from a routine or adapting to changes. Trouble making friends and maintaining social relationships, or not “fitting in” with peers.
Famous People with Autism Spectrum Disorder
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).
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.
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.
Five key signs of autism (ASD) involve difficulties with social communication, repetitive behaviors, intense interests, sensory sensitivities, and strict routines, such as trouble with small talk/eye contact, hand-flapping/lining things up, deep focus on specific topics, sensitivity to sounds/lights, and distress over schedule changes, though these vary widely.
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.
HOUSTON–Doctors often diagnose children with attention deficit disorders, learning disabilities or bipolar disorder when their patients actually have Asperger's—a developmental disorder that inhibits the ability to socialize well with others.
Signs of autism in adults
There is not just one cause of ASD. Many different factors have been identified that may make a child more likely to have ASD, including environmental, biologic, and genetic factors.
However, some gifted children are twice exceptional. Their unique behaviours and characteristics may be the presentation of another condition, such as a learning disability or Asperger's Syndrome (part of a range of conditions included in Autism Spectrum Disorder).
We and others have reported significant brain structural differences in people with Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism. 30,32,41,42 Conversely, Lotspeich and colleagues43 suggest the distinction is one of degree and that Asperger syndrome is on the neuro-anatomically milder end of the autism spectrum.
Autism and Asperger's syndrome have not hindered the success and impact of individuals in the entertainment industry. In this section, we will explore the journeys of Dan Aykroyd, Daryl Hannah, and Temple Grandin.
Characteristics of Asperger syndrome include difficulty with social interactions and unusual behaviors such as:
Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS) This test includes 80 questions that can help identify adults who show symptoms of Asperger's. RAADS analyzes language, social interactions, sensory-motor skills, interests, and more. A mental health professional scores and analyzes the results.