Asperger and PDD

The Austim Spectrum

Asperger and PDD terminology can be confusing at times. Pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) consist of five conditions, including autism and Asperger syndrome. While all of these disorders fall under the same category, they each have their differences as well
as similarities.

What furthers the possible confusion with Asperger and PDD is the sequence of historical discoveries in the area of the autism spectrum of disorders. Both Asperger syndrome and autistic disorder were discovered in the 1940’s. These discoveries occurred in two different countries almost simultaneously.

It wasn’t until later that the classification of pervasive developmental disorders emerged. There are five PDD conditions, each with common threads and their own unique qualifications. The five pervasive developmental disorders are:

1. not-otherwise-specified (PDDNOS)
2. autism
3. Asperger syndrome
4. Rett's syndrome
5. childhood degenerative disorder

These all fall under the spectrum of PDD conditions. However, since autism is the most recognized of these syndromes, they are referred to as being part of the autism spectrum of disorders.

Why are there different clasifications of PDD?

You might wonder why these conditions are classified as PDD rather than as autism in general. The group is referred to as pervasive developmental disorders because:

• They are lifelong conditions.
• They affect proper development.
• They are disorders.

The classification of these conditions as PDD syndromes is appropriate because they all meet these requirements. Since autism is so well known, they are often referred to as being in the autism spectrum. Books on Asperger syndrome are helpful in the distinction of this condition.

Adding to the confusion in public understanding is the popular notion that autistics are all savants. This is likely due to the famous character, Raymond Babbitt in the movie "Rainman." This character is based on a real autistic savant named Kim Peek.

The popularity of the film brought immediate attention and fascination to the autistic savant condition, which led to a general stereotype of all autistic individuals as being savant; however, individuals like Kim Peek represent only ten percent of the autistic population.

Awareness of this spectrum of developmental disorders builds a better understanding of Asperger and PDD conditions. Public perception is built through awareness.

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