Asperger’s syndrome, once classified as a separate condition, is now considered part of the broader autism spectrum disorder (ASD). People with Asperger’s often show differences in social interaction, communication, and behaviour, but without significant delays in language or intellectual development.
Standard features include intense focus on specific interests, difficulty understanding social cues, preference for routines, and sometimes heightened sensitivity to sounds, lights, or textures. At the same time, many individuals with Asperger’s have remarkable strengths such as attention to detail, deep expertise, and creative thinking.
It’s important to note that Asperger’s is not an illness to “cure” but a different way of experiencing the world. With understanding, support, and inclusive environments, people on the spectrum can thrive in education, work, and relationships.
The move to classify Asperger’s under the autism spectrum emphasises the diversity within autism rather than dividing it into separate boxes. Today, many people still use the word “Asperger’s” to describe their identity, while others prefer “autistic” or “on the spectrum.”