Is Aspergers considered on the spectrum?
Asperger syndrome, or Asperger’s, is a previously used diagnosis on the autism spectrum. In 2013, it became part of one umbrella diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5).
Are Aspergers and autism on the same spectrum?
As of 2013, Asperger’s is now considered part of the autism spectrum and is no longer diagnosed as a separate condition. Your answers will help us improve our experience.
Is Aspergers hereditary?
The cause of Asperger syndrome, like most ASDs, is not fully understood, but there is a strong genetic basis, which means it does tend to run in families. Multiple environmental factors are also thought to play an important role in the development of all ASDs.
What do people with Asperger’s have difficulty with?
People with Asperger’s have difficulty: Processing language and interpreting facial expressions, body language and tone of voice. Understanding figures of speech or metaphors. Their literal understanding means they will think you mean exactly what you say.
Can a professional be uncertain of the diagnosis of Asperger/autism spectrum?
A professional may be uncertain of the diagnosis, however, if Asperger/Autism spectrum is outside his or her area of expertise. After the question of an Asperger profile is initially raised, many adults and their family members wonder, “Should I pursue a ‘formal diagnosis’?”
Can adults self-diagnose Asperger syndrome?
Many adults with an Asperger profile stumble upon the description of Asperger Syndrome or Autism Spectrum. They may read about it or be told by a family member or friend about the profile. Some may believe that the information matches their history and their current situation and, as a result, may self-diagnose.
What defines Asperger syndrome and/or ASD?
Historically, professionals have not even agreed on the constellation of attributes that define Asperger Syndrome and/or ASD. Asperger Syndrome was not a formal diagnosis until 1994. Asperger Syndrome has since been subsumed under the formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. We have yet to see how the categories will shift in the future.