There is a great deal of confusion when it comes to the differences between Asperger's and autism. It seems that even medical professionals have difficulty determining a clear line between the two conditions. Often, it boils down to simply categorizing people according to the specific traits they exhibit, such as how they use language. However, there are some people who assert that Asperger's and autism are actually the same condition and should both fall under the heading of autism.
It's important to understand pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs) when trying to determine the differences (or lack thereof) between Asperger'sand autism. PDDs are neurobiolocal disorders that include a wide spectrum of conditions, including Asperger's and autism. PDDS are marked by much delayed or significantly lacking social and language skills. A person with a PDD will usually have problems communicating with others and understanding language. Often, people with these conditions ignore or fail to understand facial expressions, and they may not make eye contact as most people expect in social situations.
Autism is the most well known of the conditions classified as PDDs. Autistic people look just like everyone else. It is their behavior that is different, and they appear withdrawn and often resist change. They tend to throw tantrums, shake, flap or move their bodies in odd ways and laugh or cry for what seems like no reason.
People with autism may play in a way that it considered odd and exhibit obsessive attachments to certain objects. They may act as if they are deaf, ignore verbal cues, repeat certain words over and over again, or be entirely non-verbal. In those who are verbal, a lack of ability to start a conversation is often evident.
Asperger's Syndrome is often considered within the spectrum of autism. A person with Asperger's may exhibit odd or abnormal verbal communication skills. He may also avoid peer relationships, lack interest in others, fail to return emotional feelings, form obsessive attachments to subjects of interest and have repetitive behaviors. He may exhibit repetitive movements, such as flapping or twisting. Interestingly, people with Asperger's generally do not experience delays in language or cognitive development, and they are often very curious about their environment.
It is important to note that not all people with Asperger's and autism lack the ability to function normally. Some are considered highly functioning and are capable of caring for themselves and interacting socially. However, these people are usually seen as odd or eccentric because they still have behaviors that don't mesh with what most people consider normal.
Since Asperger's and autism are seen as so similar, some people draw a line between the two at language development and social awareness. It seems that those with Asperger's Syndrome typically have more normal language development, though many still have disordered language and communication skills. People with Asperger's also tend to be more interested in and aware of social interactions than those with autism. However, social skills must be taught and even practiced, as they generally don't come naturally to people with this syndrome.
