Defining Asperger Syndrome

Unique with Many Characteristics

Defining Asperger syndrome is difficult to pinpoint for parents, professionals, and educators. This is due to the enigmatic nature
of the condition and the lack of a particular "label" associated with Aspergers.

Finding the solution to really defining Asperger syndrome is no easy task. While there is so much research being conducted about disorders in the autism spectrum, this relatively new diagnosis faces many challenges, one of which is an exact definition.

What are the reasons for public misunderstanding of AS?

Individuals who have Aspergers are very high functioning. They are intelligent and attractive individuals who just don’t know or aren't sure how to interact socially. These unique individuals also have sensory problems that can cause great discomfort.

On the outside, they may appear to be perfectly fine. However, there is a lot of stress and anxiety on the inside. Since the condition is internal rather than something that is easily spotted like many other disorders, it's difficult to recognize.

Problems with defining Asperger syndrome escalate as the child reaches teenage years.

Some students (and ill-informed adults) have gone so far as to claim that there is no such thing as Aspergers. Nothing could be further from the truth. There are real reasons for the AS person’s behavior and seeming lack of empathy. Defining Asperger disorders has to go beyond explaining the symptoms.

How do you explain the condition to the person who has it?

You might naturally think that the person with Aspergers would fully understand his or her condition. These individuals might be quite aware of how they experience the world and might not understand why others don’t comprehend it.

An AS person behaves in with distinct mannerisms, which they have grown up with. The world might seem turned inside out by the thought that it's the other people who are "different," not themselves. The biggest hurdle in trying to define Aspergers is trying to communicate that situation when many neurotypical people simply don’t understand.

Is there ongoing research for Asperger syndrome?

Yes, research is ongoing for Aspergers and related pervasive developmental disorders, but studies have yet to yield solid results.

In time, public awareness and tolerance for individuals who exhibit unusual behavior will broaden with education and awareness. For now, the focus is primarily on creating a balance between Asperger syndrome and a definition that we all can comprehend.

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