Asperger's Syndrome?

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The term Asperger's Syndrome (or Asperger's) was once used to describe a specific profile of autism, characterised by difficulties in social interactions, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviours, but without significant delays in language or cognitive development. However, since the release of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) in 2013, Asperger's Syndrome has been absorbed into the broader diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASC or ASD).

What Happened to Asperger's Syndrome?

1. Reclassification: In 2013, the DSM-5 eliminated Asperger's as a separate diagnosis. Instead, it was included under Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which covers a wide range of individuals with varying levels of support needs. This change was made because researchers found that Asperger's was not significantly different from other forms of autism. Individuals with what was formerly diagnosed as Asperger's are now typically diagnosed as having Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Level 1, meaning they need some support but often do not require as much assistance as individuals with more pronounced challenges.

2. Why the Change?

   • Continuum of Symptoms: Research showed that autism is a spectrum, and Asperger's fits within this continuum. The boundaries between Asperger's and other types of autism were often blurry, leading to inconsistent diagnoses.

   • Simplification of Diagnosis: By unifying the conditions under the broader ASD category, the DSM-5 aimed to make diagnoses more consistent and accurate across clinicians.

3. Levels of Support:

   • The DSM-5 introduced the idea of levels of support within ASD to reflect the fact that individuals with autism have varying needs. This replaced subtypes like Asperger's.

   • Level 1 (formerly associated with Asperger's) refers to individuals who need support but are able to function independently in many aspects of life. They often have strong language skills and average to above-average intelligence but face challenges with social interaction and communication.

4. ICD-11:

   • Similarly, in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), Asperger’s Syndrome is no longer a separate diagnosis and is classified under Autism Spectrum Disorder as well.

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Differences Between Asperger’s and Autism Spectrum Disorder:

The distinction between Asperger’s and other forms of autism was mainly related to:

• Language Development: People with Asperger’s generally did not experience significant delays in language development, unlike some individuals with autism.

• Cognitive Development: People with Asperger's typically had average or above-average intelligence and did not show cognitive impairments often seen in some individuals with other forms of autism.

Under the new classification, people who would have been diagnosed with Asperger's are still on the autism spectrum, but their particular strengths and challenges are noted within the spectrum.

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Terminology Today:

• Asperger's Syndrome is still sometimes used informally or by individuals who received that diagnosis before the DSM-5 changes. Many people continue to identify with the term because it reflects their experience and personal identity.

• However, in clinical settings, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the accepted diagnosis.

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Conclusion:

Asperger's Syndrome no longer exists as a separate diagnosis; it has been reclassified as part of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) under the DSM-5. The change reflects a better understanding of autism as a spectrum, encompassing a wide range of abilities and challenges. Although the term Asperger's is still used informally, individuals with this profile are now diagnosed as having ASD, often at Level 1 (requiring minimal support).