Asperger's vs Autism: What is The Difference?

Misconception and Stigma

The prevailing perception of autism, previously called Asperger’s syndrome, is clouded by misconception and stigma. Society commonly expects people with autism to have above-average intelligence. While many children and adults on the spectrum experience unique cognitive skills and exceptional creative talents, studies have shown that only up to 25% of them have genius-level intelligence. These people’s intelligence levels and abilities can vary from the rest of the population.

Due to the effects of autism on social and communication skills, the average autistic person can be perceived as rude, difficult, or lacking in empathy – which is not the case. People with this difference communicate their social or emotional experiences in unconventional ways. Those who live with Autism Spectrum and Asperger Syndrome usually experience anxiety or repetitive behaviours, which makes people on the spectrum struggle with social interaction. An Autism and Asperger’s identification doesn’t mean the person’s behaviour needs to be “fixed”. It is a spectrum of neurodiversity. There is nothing “wrong” with individuals on the Autism spectrum; they deserve to feel loved and supported by those around them.

While the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual focuses on clinical terms that often cause misconceptions around autism, such as regularly using “autism diagnosis”, ”mental disorders” and “autism spectrum disorder (ASD)” as a way of common communication, we are moving toward inclusivity and terms such as “autism identification”, ”neurological difference” and “autism spectrum,” which are preferred by the autistic community.

⇒ Therefore, read more about the rich world of neurodivergent people and their strengths.

Autism and Asperger's Syndrome: Similarities

While several characteristics distinguish Asperger’s syndrome from other forms of autism, the two share the same key indications. Asperger’s syndrome is considered to be under the umbrella of the autism spectrum, alongside other conditions such as Pervasive Developmental Disorder and Childhood Disintegrate Disorder.

Like all individuals with autism, people with Asperger’s syndrome have difficulty interpreting social cues in verbal or nonverbal communication (e.g. facial expressions, eye contact, etc.). They also tend to focus on their topics of interest during conversations obsessively. These traits make it hard for children and adults on the spectrum to maintain relationships.

People living with Autism and Asperger’s syndrome often tend to stick to restricted routines and engage in repetitive patterns of behaviour. They have the desire to follow fixed schedules and usually feel distressed in cases of change. Repetitive movements (such as twirling, hand-flapping, and rocking back and forth) are another common trait associated with Autism and Asperger’s syndrome.

In addition to that, individuals with both Autism and Asperger’s syndrome have unique sensory experiences that make them stand out from neurotypical individuals. They can be hypersensitive to bright lights, loud sounds, or particular textures. Due to difficulty understanding and the challenges they face in social interactions, people with these differences can develop mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression.

Leaf Complex Care provides Mental health Support for autistic children, young people and adults. Also, we have developed a Rapid Response Service to be there when you need urgent support.

Autism and Asperger's Syndrome: Differences

The main difference between autism and what used to be defined as Asperger Syndrome is that the former is linked to more severe symptoms. Another difference between autism and Asperger’s is cognitive functioning. A person with Asperger’s cannot have a significant cognitive delay, as is usually seen among autistic children. Children on the lower end of the spectrum (what was once identified as Asperger’s) have average to above-average intelligence. In contrast, other children on the spectrum usually have significant cognitive delays. While, Asperger’s is associated with less severe characteristics and good language and cognitive skills. This distinction in cognitive functioning is a key factor in differentiating between autism and Asperger’s.

Unlike Autism, Asperger’s usually doesn’t cause developmental delays or severe impairment of the person’s language development. Due to the severity of its signs, autism is more likely to be identified in the early childhood years, and the need of an early intervention is necessary.

Differences in Social Communication and Interaction

A vital difference between Autism and Asperger’s is that children with autism are more prone to experiencing language delays, while Asperger’s syndrome usually doesn’t disrupt language learning. Therefore, individuals with Asperger’s are more likely to have good language skills and grasp verbal communication from an early school age.

Children and young autistic people often resort to social withdrawal, whereas the ones with Asperger’s may try to interact with their peers. However, they welcome social interactions; individuals with Asperger’s still struggle to interpret nonverbal communication and jokes.

Differences in Repetitive Behaviours and Interests

The repetitive behaviours and interests in individuals with Autism and Asperger’s syndrome differ in intensity. Children, young people, and adults with both differences engage in various repetitive movements, such as:

Both also prefer to follow strict routines and fixate on specific topics of interest. However, people living with autism can experience more intense emotions of distress due to routine changes.

Sensory Differences and Sensitivities

Similarly, both Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger’s syndrome cause sensitivity to sensory input, including:

However, people with Asperger’s syndrome may have milder reactions to sensory overload, whereas those with other forms of autism need immediate intervention.

⇒ Read more about our Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) in crisis situations and the strategies we take towards positive outcomes for the people we support.

Asperger's Syndrome vs High-Functioning Autism

Asperger’s syndrome and autism without a learning disability, also known as high-functioning autism (HFA), were once considered distinct neurological differences, but they are now both encompassed under the umbrella term of autism.

Autism without a learning disability typically refers to people with significant language or intellectual skills, and it was often used to describe those who did not have delays in communication and language, a key distinction from traditional autism. One of the major differences between Asperger’s syndrome and autism was the absence of speech delay in Asperger’s, as people with this condition typically had average or higher than average language and intelligence skills.

People living with autism without a learning disability and Asperger’s have a better visual perception of things. Instead of thinking verbally, they tend to create mental pictures when recalling a particular event or idea. Both differences are associated with a relatively poor grasp of facial expressions, body language, and other nonverbal cues.

Challenges and Strengths Associated with Both Syndromes

Autism and Asperger’s syndrome cause difficulties in many aspects of life, especially regarding the person’s social integration. People on the spectrum often experience challenges with interpreting social cues, sensory overload, or coping with changes in their fixed schedule.

However, it is important for them and their families to know that these differences also bring many unique strengths. Children, young people, and adults with autism can lead a life filled with moments of. With their unique outlook on problem-solving, they can also achieve academic and professional success.

The Future of Autism Spectrum

The perception of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger’s syndrome and the expert approach to their treatment is constantly evolving. These developmental differences are now viewed as forms of neurodiversity. Children and adults on the spectrum don’t need to be cured; they need proper accommodation and positive behaviour support (PBS) on their pathway to independence.

At-home care services enable individuals on the spectrum to receive the assistance they need in their familiar surroundings, close to their loved ones. With the help of a dedicated team of carers, autistic children and adults can achieve their full potential and lead thriving social, emotional, academic, and professional lives.

Autism Support with Leaf Complex Care

At Leaf Complex Care, we strive to help autistic children and adults channel their unique strengths into a productive framework and maximise their independence, self-esteem, and social integration.

The Story of P.

P. is a young boy 24 years that lives with autism, including a learning disability. Years of inadequate care have led to a damaging impact on his behaviour and well-being. A single phone call to our Fast Response Team ignited a positive transformation, giving P. and his family a new beginning.

Our support workers provide compassionate care to P. through cohesiveness, consistent teamwork, and a person–centred approach to people with learning disabilities.

We are beyond proud to share the full story of P. and to spread the care journey we embarked on towards P.’s more independent life.

If you are looking for a CQC-regulated home care service provider for yourself or a loved one on the spectrum, Leaf Complex Care is the right place for you. We deliver person-centred care for neurodivergent individuals in Bristol Slough, Somerset, and the Midlands.

Contact us, and we will create tailored care that meets your personal needs and preferences.