Asperger Syndrome
And Related Disorders

Asperger syndrome and related disorders are relatively new
in the field of research. These conditions were traditionally left misdiagnosed or undiagnosed before the 1980’s. We've made progress and now have ongoing research and are garnering public support!

Asperger syndrome and related disorders are known to be quite puzzling in nature. The autism spectrum of disorders is very difficult to define because the conditions have a significant range of severity.

Autism and Aspergers fall into the category of pervasive developmental disorders. Some individuals with a PDD require
round-the-clock supervision and many behavioral interventions
to manage the condition. Others are able to live independently and have productive working careers as well as other positive aspects
of their lives.

What ARE the five pervasive developmental disorders?

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

Autism and Aspergers are the two most recognized conditions; however, many children and adults are diagnosed with pervasive developmental disorder, not-otherwise-specified.

The not-otherwise-specified diagnosis is considered by some to be a catchall for individuals who have some of the signs autism but not enough to fit in any of the four other disorders. PDD conditions don't have to be mild to fall under the not-otherwise-specified designation. Some cases are very severe.

The two other pervasive developmental disorders include Rett’s syndrome and childhood degenerative disorder. Each of these conditions is very rare, and the symptoms are remarkably severe. Children develop normally at first in these two conditions but drastically lose previously mastered skills and interactive abilities.

What makes Aspergers a unique PDD?

Exceptional language skills are a main reason that Asperger syndrome is unique among the five pervasive developmental disorders. One of the major symptoms of autism and other PDD conditions is severe deficits in language processing and acquisition, whereas these skills are commonly strong in individuals with Asperger syndrome.

This is not to suggest that AS people don't have any problems with communication. Social skills require individuals to read and understand body language, and Asperger individuals have difficulty reading these social cues.

Children with AS are able to attend regular schools in most cases, and have demonstrated that they have much to contribute to the mainstream classroom. Their major hurdles are sensory problems, behavior, and a need for order in addition to social skill deficits. With an open-minded and compassionate teacher, all things are possible!

Many children in the autism spectrum of disorders surpass expectations of parents and professionals. While Asperger syndrome and related disorders can pose many challenges, they also prove that people
CAN work together toward a common goal.

Return to "About Aspergers Syndrome" from "Asperger Syndrome and Related Disorders"