Asperger’s syndrome (Asperger’s) is no longer a diagnosis. Now, it is part of ASD (autism spectrum disorder) or ASC (autism spectrum conditions). If I had received a diagnosis over five years ago, I would have been diagnosed with Asperger’s.  

Today, they are no longer a separate diagnosis. The difference is that with Asperger’s there is no delay in language development, and individuals can speak fluently from their early childhood. There is no intellectual disability as individuals with Asperger’s usually have average to above average intelligence, but still have difficulties in reading social cues, have rigid routines and intense interests.

A misconception is that Asperger’s is a mild form of autism or high-functioning autism. However, support needs of individuals can vary widely. The diagnosis of Asperger’s changed to emphasise the support needs of individuals rather than their label. It was also believed that it was because Hans Asperger, who researched Asperger’s syndrome, was thought to be a Nazi collaborator, but I don’t think this was necessarily the reason it was changed. So, to give individuals with Asperger’s the same chances of support they required as individuals with ‘classic autism’ had received, the diagnosis of Asperger’s was changed to autism.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Final Thoughts

Researchers distinguished Asperger’s through the absence of language delays and average to above average intellectual ability. However, it highlights the diversity of experiences among people on the spectrum. Asperger’s is now part of autism and shows that there are unique strengths and challenges between individuals.

Sources and Further Reading:

Asperger syndrome (Asperger’s)

Asperger’s vs. Autism: What’s the Difference?

What is high functioning autism? An in-depth look – Attwood & Garnett Events