The spelling of the word "Aspergers Disorder" can be a bit confusing. The pronunciation of the word is actually closer to "ass-per-jerz," with the emphasis on the second syllable. The spelling includes a silent "g" and a silent "s" at the end. The disorder is named after Hans Asperger, an Austrian pediatrician who first described the condition in the 1940s. Individuals with Asperger's Disorder often have difficulty with social interactions and communication, as well as hyper-focus on specific topics.
Asperger's disorder, also known as Asperger's syndrome or simply Asperger's, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that falls on the autism spectrum. It is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive patterns of behavior or interests. Named after its discoverer, Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger, the disorder typically manifests in early childhood and continues into adulthood.
Individuals with Asperger's disorder often struggle with understanding social cues and norms, finding it challenging to initiate or maintain conversations, and frequently exhibit repetitive behaviors or highly specific interests. They may also have difficulty with abstract thinking, interpret figurative language literally, or struggle with nonverbal communication.
Despite these difficulties, individuals with Asperger's disorder often show remarkable abilities or talents in specific fields. They may have exceptionally good memory or focus, possess a deep knowledge of specific subjects of interest, and demonstrate proficiency in particular academic areas like math or science.
It's important to note that Asperger's disorder is now considered part of the autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This change reflects the understanding that individuals with Asperger's share many of the same characteristics and challenges as those with classic autism but often have more developed language skills and average or above-average intelligence. The support and treatment for individuals with Asperger's disorder aim to improve social and communication skills, manage anxiety or sensory sensitivities, and provide strategies for navigating daily life and relationships.
The term "Asperger's disorder" is named after Hans Asperger, an Austrian pediatrician and medical researcher. In the 1940s, Dr. Asperger studied a group of children who exhibited similar characteristics, which he referred to as "autistic psychopathy". He first presented his findings in a German-language paper in 1944, describing these children as having difficulty with social interactions and displaying limited nonverbal behaviors, among other traits.
Later, in the 1980s, Dr. Lorna Wing, a British psychiatrist, translated Asperger's work into English and popularized it. She coined the term "Asperger's syndrome" to refer to the condition outlined by Dr. Asperger. The name "Asperger's" became widely recognized and used to describe individuals displaying similar characteristics.