Vivid Calm Donate ADVICE AND GUIDANCE WHAT IS AUTISM ASPERGER SYNDROME Asperger syndrome and other terms 'Asperger syndrome' was introduced to the world by British psychiatrist Lorna Wing in the 1980s. The term derives from a 1944 study by Austrian paediatrician Hans Asperger (new evidence about his problematic history has recently been revealed and provoked a big debate). Many people who fit the profile for Asperger syndrome are now being diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder instead. Each person is different, and it is up to each individual how they choose to identify. Some people with a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome may choose to keeping using the term, while others may prefer to refer to themselves as autistic or on the autistic spectrum. Autism is a spectrum condition. All autistic people share certain difficulties, but being autistic will affect them in different ways. Some people with Asperger syndrome also have mental health issues or other conditions, meaning people need different levels and types of support. People with Asperger syndrome see, hear and feel the world differently to other people. If you have Asperger syndrome, you have it for life – it is not an illness or disease and cannot be ‘cured’. Often people feel that Asperger syndrome is a fundamental aspect of their identity. People with Asperger syndrome don't have the learning disabilities that many autistic people have, but they may have specific learning difficulties. They may have fewer problems with speech but may still have difficulties with understanding and processing language. With the right sort of support, all autistic people can be helped to live a more fulfilling life of their own choosing. How common is Asperger syndrome? How do people with Asperger syndrome see the world? The benefits of an Asperger syndrome diagnosis How Asperger syndrome is diagnosed Differences in communication Differences in social interaction Repetitive behaviours and routines Highly focused interests Different names and terms for autism The problematic history of Hans Asperger Stories from the Spectrum Autistic people and their friends and families share their experiences of life on the spectrum. There are funny stories, thought-provoking stories, moving and challenging stories. The Spectrum magazine Explore one of the UK's largest collections of autistic art, poetry, and prose. The Spectrum magazine is created by and for autistic people, and is available both online and in print. How to talk about autism Tips for journalists and producers on how to describe autism Read more WAS THIS PAGE HELPFUL? Yes No GW You are not alone Join the community Our online community is a place for autistic people and their families to meet like-minded people and share their experiences. Join today Keep up to date with all the great things we're doing Subscribe for updates Feedback and complaints Cookies, privacy and legal Terms and conditions Transparency and compliance We are registered as a charity in England and Wales (269425) and in Scotland (SC039427). The National Autistic Society is also a company limited by guarantee, registered at Companies House (01205298). VAT registration number: 653370050. © The National Autistic Society 2021