What Is Aspergers

What is Aspergers? The condition is classified as one of the five pervasive developmental disorders in the DSM IV, but there appears to be much more to the syndrome than mere classification. The history of the diagnosis, its unique qualities, and theories about Asperger's syndrome may help to answer the question.

Asperger syndrome details

What Is Aspergers

The syndrome was discovered by Hans Asperger in the early 1940's, ironically in the roughly the same time frame that Leo Kanner discovered autism. The history of the condition is recent, as is the case with the other four pervasive developmental disorders, but it is unique in that it was not recognized as a formal diagnosis until the 1990s.

The condition is neurobiological, affecting the way the brain processes information. It is important to note that many individuals do not view the differences in mental processes to be "wrong" by any means. It is merely a non-nerotypical way of perceiving the world. The condition is more akin to blindness than to a debilitating illness.

Social Obstacles

Social blindness manifests itself in a number of ways. A person diagnosed on the autism spectrum has difficulty understanding social interactions, especially subtle nuances of nonverbal communication, figurative language, and humor.

Sensory processing problems can also lead to unusual behaviors. An AS person's sensory system can be hyper or hyposensitive, either taking in too much or too little information. The sensory problems can lead to self-stimulatory behaviors that block input or create more input to create balance. The result is often the stereotyped repetitive movements associated with classical austim.

Preoccupation and focus of limited interests can interfere with the Aspie's ability to connect socially. For example, an individual on the spectrum may talk incessantly about a topic of interest without recognizing the subtle social cues that the listener has no interest in the topic.

The theory of mind suggests that a person with a pervasive developmental disorder has difficulty recognizing that others have different thoughts, beliefs and emotions. The "shared mind" is a difficult concept for many neurotypical people to understand.

A deep-rooted need for order and routine can be troublesome as well. The AS individual may depend on repetition and sameness, following routines may appear to be ritualistic to non-autistic individuals.

Female Aspies

Asperger symptoms are relatively mild, making diagnosis difficult. This appears to be especially important in diagnosing the condition in females. Diagnostic tests are not specific to the female form of the condition. Dr. Tony Atwood suggests that Aspie boys are "little professors" just as Hans Asperger described them, but he also asserts that females are "little philosophers". The Asperger Women Association is a great resource for females with this diagnosis as well as their families.

Questioning Aspergers

The condition is one that is subject to debate. How Asperger syndrome is defined depends on theories about the nature of AS.

• Autism spectrum disorder
• High functioning autism
• Nonverbal learning disability
• Mild autism
• PDD NOS

The DSM IV makes a clear distinction between Aspergers and other pervasive developmental disorders in that the condition does not include the profound delays in communication and cognitive development. Many individuals with this diagnosis are very articulate and well-informed, especially in their specific areas of interest.

AS Misunderstandings

Some question the validity of the condition in spite of empirical research that has unveiled the differences in brains of people with Aspergers from the brains of neurotypical individuals. The problem may stem from the fact that many Aspies are very high functioning and they have normal to high intelligence. No physical problems are readily apparent, making the condition difficult to "see".

The Aspie Perspective

The question What is Aspergers? is best directed to people diagnosed with the condition. Some excellent resources for better understanding the AS perspectives include but are not limited to:

• Wrong Planet is a comprehensive site that features news, updates, and feedback from the AS community.

• The Stonking Steps offers a fantastic perspective, exploring Aspergers as a culture rather than a disability.

• Asperger Women Association Forum is a valuable resource that offers information and insight about AS and women.

• Stephen Shore was diagnosed "Atypical Development with strong autistic tendencies". He is an acclaimed author and speaker.

Those diagnosed on the spectrum offer the most valuable information. This begins with the very nature of one of the biggest obstacles, understanding communication.

• Preschool Activities for Autistic Children
• Possible Causes of Autism
• Tips for Raising Kids with Autism
• What Is Your Autism Empathy Rating?

• Lesson Plans for Autistic Children
• Adult Autism Symptoms
• Social Skills Activities for Kids with Autism
• Speech Therapy Ideas for Autistic Children
• Famous Autistic People

• Aspergers and Middle School
• Martial Arts Therapy for Aspergers
• What Is the Difference Between Aspergers and PDD-NOS
• Aspergers in Adults
• Aspergers Checklist