The term 'Asperger's'

Asperger Syndrome (AS) is a neuro-developmental difference and is associated with the Autism Spectrum. The Autism spectrum consists of the range of neuro-developmental disorders. Among the Autism Spectrum are Autism Spectrum Disorders or ASD. They include Autistic disorder, which is most commonly heard of, pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), Rett syndrome, Asperger's Syndrome, and Childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD) (Ezine). There are similar qualities between diagnoses with Aspergers and Autism. Hans Asperger first used the term in a paper of his describing children with Autistic traits, however he was from Austria thus the paper was written in German. The term was not heard of in America until 1981 when British researcher Loma Wing used it in her paper, 'Aspergers Syndrome: A clinical account.' Her paper was published a year after the death of Hans Asperger. Hans Asperger was a psychologist who was interested in physically challenged children. He used what he called Autistic pschopathy to diagnose four hundred children. The term Autistic psychopathy is defined by the lack of sympathy and communication as well as repetitive behavior displayed in those with Aspergers.  

 

Some characteristics

• People with Asperger syndrome often display honesty, they say exactly what they think and do not understand why people lie.

 

• They are also likely to be creative and may look at and solve a problem differently than most people would.

 

• It is common for them to have a special interest they are invested in and because of that they become very knowledgeable about it. 

 

• As well as special interests, they enjoy routine. Having a routine gives order and is more comfortable for someone with AS. 

 

• They also have a hard time picking up on social cues and cannot grasp the fact that others have different emotions, feelings, or interests different from their own. 

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• Generally those diagnosed with Asperger tend to display clumsiness, lack of empathy, an intense interest in one thing, inappropriate behavior and poor nonverbal communication (Eye contact, body posture, gestures, and facial expressions) (Winter). 

 

Causes

The cause for Asperger's is unknown however it is believed that genetics and the environment have an impact. Developmental disorders appear to run in families, scientists have evidence of families with behavioral disorders relating to that of Aspergers. These include social interaction, language and reading skills.

 

Other Differences 

It is also common for someone with Aspergers to be diagnosed with other disorders. Over 70 percent of young people with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder have an additional mental health problem. Depression, Dysgraphia, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Echolalia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder are among those associated with Asperger's. Depression is the most commonly heard about and there has been a high suicide rate among those with Asperger's. Perhaps it is the isolation they feel because they are aware of their differences from others. Humans long to connect with others but when there is a psychological impairment it is more likely to lead to rejection ostracism and bullying.

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