Aspergers Syndrome Explained

Asperger's Syndrome is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. People with Asperger's often exhibit intense focus and a strong adherence to routines. The condition was initially described by Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger in the 1940s, and it gained prominence as a separate diagnosis until it was integrated into the broader ASD category in the DSM-5 in 2013.

Key Characteristics

1. **Social Challenges:** Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome might struggle with understanding social cues, facial expressions, body language, and maintaining reciprocal conversations. They might find it difficult to grasp the unwritten social rules that come naturally to others.

2. **Special Interests:** Many individuals with Asperger's develop deep and extensive interests in specific topics. These interests can become an area of expertise and provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

3. **Routines and Repetition:** Predictability and routine are often vital for individuals with Asperger's. Changes in routines or unexpected events can cause distress and anxiety.

4. **Sensory Sensitivities:** Sensory experiences might be intensified for individuals with Asperger's. This can include sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, and even tastes.

5. **Language Abilities:** While individuals with Asperger's might have advanced language skills, they could struggle with using language in a social context. They might speak formally or have difficulty understanding metaphors and idiomatic expressions.

Strengths and Positive Aspects

1. **Attention to Detail:** People with Asperger's often possess remarkable attention to detail, which can be an asset in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and arts.

2. **Persistence and Dedication:** Once they develop an interest, individuals with Asperger's tend to display exceptional dedication and persistence in pursuing their passions.

3. **Honesty and Integrity:** Many individuals with Asperger's value honesty and authenticity, often speaking their mind without social filters.

Promoting Inclusivity

Understanding and acceptance are the cornerstones of building an inclusive society. Here's how we can contribute:

1. **Education:** Educating ourselves and others about Asperger's Syndrome helps dispel misconceptions and fosters empathy.

2. **Supportive Environments:** Creating environments that accommodate sensory sensitivities and embrace diverse communication styles can make a significant difference.

3. **Encouraging Communication:** Encouraging open communication and providing clear instructions can aid individuals with Asperger's in social interactions.

Asperger's Syndrome is a unique aspect of neurodiversity that enriches our understanding of human cognition and behavior. By acknowledging the challenges faced by individuals with Asperger's and celebrating their strengths, we move closer to building an inclusive society where everyone is valued for their unique contributions.

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[GLC-]

As someone diagnosed with Asperger’s at a young age in the late 90’s-early 00’s I struggled with getting support both in my home and school life and my mother fought for years just so I could have a school aide and was finally able to get one in high school after the school told us for years it wasn’t in the budget and being sent to the next grade higher without being able to retain the knowledge I learned in school. I graduated thankfully but unfortunately I have no life skills and am afraid to use my support systems in public like say at a job for fear of upsetting people and being yelled at/attacked and it triggering my trauma from my dad.

[BrennOrt]

I've just been diagnosed at the age of 26. It's been a pretty long and exahusting journey but your videos definitely have helped me a lot to understand and accept my condition. Thank you so much!

[samk]

Thanks for this vid and for your channel. I'm 68, male, diagnosed with ADHD about 30 years ago but never Asperger's. I'm highly verbal and even managed to eek out a Master's degree in social work. But the one constant pervasive feeling I've always had is that I just never fit into this world. Ever. Since I was little. I was married for 15 years, but it was definitely rocky. Now, I find myself feeling much more comfortable by myself. In fact, when the lock down occurred here in the U.S. I thought: "Wow. Now everybody is more like I am". 😀

[BogDustForBreakfast]

Hello, im 37 and i have Aspergers . was diagnosed when i was 5-6 years of age . always had trouble finding / keeping friends. luckily i married the most loving and understanding person i know!. ive found over the years i say inappropriate things quite frequently . my learning wasnt really comprimised due to having aspegers. i learnt better hands on. im a spray painter and funny enough i have this YouTube channel teaching my trade . ive had many comments saying i teach in a way which is really easy to understand . possibly this is also due to having aspegers .. ive always doubted i had it . but the older i get i feel i notice it more often. i fear its getting worse some days . or maybe i just notice the traits of aspegers. to any Parents reading this . have faith im sure your kids will excel at something they are passionate about just like i have . thanks for reading

[CNae]

I was diagnosed with Asperger's in 2010 im now 34 . This diagnosis came after years and years since childhood of prescribed antipsychotic medications that i never needed . So happy i came across a doctor who took the time to get to know me and put me through the right cognitive testing for a proper diagnosis!

[JeremyTolmie]

I was diagnosed with Aspergers in 99 just before my 18th birthday. My doctor changed it to just Autism when Aspergers got removed from the DSM in 2013. I did not have any support till 2013 as a result.

[SAMMY]

I was diagnosed with high functioning autism in 2015.

[AKtheman]

I just recently found out I have Asperger’s Syndrome because of you. Thank you for helping me realize something about myself and my family I could never figure out before.

[goncalo]

Suggestion: Get someone to subtitle your videos to spanish. 500 million people is waiting for your great contents.

[timothywalker]

Down load a book I don’t have a printer. I’m glad you have a book but I need to get an actual book. It’s good that you did a quick history on Asperger’s that could answer the question why did that term disappeared, I heard that Europe still uses that description and hasn’t walked away from that usage.

[MasterSoto]

Formally diagnosed at the age of 41, just discovered and subscribed your channel today. Will be checking out all your videos. 😎

[VicGeorgeK]

I'm 55 and have been late-diagnosed with ASD. I had a developmental disorder when I was a child in the 1970s and was originally diagnosed with childhood schizophrenia. One of my previous therapists have suggested that I may have Asperger's, but I never really received a formal diagnosis of my condition until my later years.

[Rueuhy]

There is a student worker where I work who has Aspbergers and I didn't know at first. After a few conversations with her, and a conversation with my supervisor who knew about her condition, I wanted to help her feel welcome and help her with social interaction which was one of the reasons she had taken the job she's working. A few others probably hesitate striking up conversations because of the monotone structure she speaks in which is slightly different than what many are use to. Personally I like to joke with people or tell funny stories. I realized that I was starting to be more hesitant in approaching her because her reactions are slightly different than what I'm use to. My supervisor explained that she's not really nervous around other people nor does she feel awkward with her speaking. It's us who are talking to her that feel different or act different. It really opened my eyes. Now I yak away and she listens just like she always did from the beginning when we met. She doesn't get all my jokes or follow all my stories but she appreciates the fact I don't hesitate speaking to her. In fact I enjoy just saying hi or telling her some dumb joke I recently heard. The best part is not caring if she finds my joke or funny story even funny. She listens and appreciates my effort. I'm really glad she's working there now and hope others see how much effort she puts in. I really respect the fact she took the job knowing how much interaction she would have with the public. And I hope many others see that as well.

[EliW]

I've come to the conclusion that aspergers should be it's own catagory of autism spectrum, and that there needs to be catagories for many other types of people on the spectrum

[jjtninja]

Got diagnosed with Asperger's back when I was ten after years of therapy back in the early 2000s.

Made me want to learn psychology and find out more about the mind.

Now, years later, DSM writers got lazy and just decided to throw it in with Autism. Now, it gets very weird since people have their preconceived notions of Autism and when it's revealed I have "Autism"--which pops up during medical screenings for jobs, their expectations and treatment towards me do a one-eighty.

I'm not fond of it.

[adamlewis]

Actually doesn't that term Asperger's no longer exist in the newest DSM?

[frenchtoastmafia]

Hey Dan! Love your content. Can you do a video on developmental delays in Aspergers? I can’t find much in it and I’m curious. I recently had an Aspergers spike a couple years ago, so I’ve started looking more into it. I think it’s because I moved off to college. I got a lot better in high school, before I moved off to college.

[dobrutkar]

iam on my way to get diagnosed and this video helped me to realize iam not alone. thanks!!!!

[Brenda-eu]

5:03 in Texas. My grandson has Asperger's or Autism. He is 22 now and I can find any help as far as moving forward with a job. I am worried he will become homeless when I am gone. What can we do to help him?

[davidrose]

I was 'Officially diagnosed in 2007 as having Aspergers aged 43, so you can imagine the stuff ive been through.