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What is Asperger’s Syndrome?
Asperger's Syndrome falls under the autistic spectrum, which is a general title for a group of life-long developmental disabilities. Asperger's Syndrome is referred to as a 'hidden disability' because it is often hard to know if someone has it, based on outward appearance alone.
Asperger's Syndrome is characterised by a lack of social skills and difficulty in forming relationships. People with the condition generally have adequate language skills and average or above average intelligence. However, like someone with autism, they can have problems with social interaction, communication and imagination.
The main difference between autism and Asperger's Syndrome lies in language development. Someone with Asperger's Syndrome has a more typical language development than someone with autism, and does not usually have additional learning disabilities often associated with autistic spectrum disorders.
Unlike other people with an autistic spectrum disorder, people with Asperger's Syndrome often want to be sociable and enjoy human contact. But as they have difficulty understanding non-verbal behaviours, such as gestures, facial expressions and body language, they often experience difficulties in social situations.
Although their language skills may be adequate, they tend not to notice the reaction of their listeners and may have difficulty knowing when to start or end a conversation. They may use complex words and phrases but may not fully understand what they mean. They might also be very literal in the phrases and words they use, and may thus have trouble understanding jokes, sarcasm and metaphors.
Someone with Asperger's Syndrome might also have repetitive behavioural patterns, resist change to routine, experience sensory sensitivity and develop a passionate interest in a particular hobby, much like someone with autism.
