The essential features of Asperger’s Disorder are severe and sustained impairment in social interaction and the development of restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. The disturbance must cause clinically significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. In contrast to Autistic Disorder, there are no clinically significant delays in language (e.g., single words are used by age 2 years, communicative phrases are used by age 3 years). In addition, there are no clinically significant delays in cognitive development or in the development of age-appropriate self-help skills, adaptive behavior (other than in social interaction), and curiosity about the environment in childhood. The diagnosis is not given if the criteria are met for any other specific Pervasive Developmental Disorder or for Schizophrenia.

Associated Features/Disorders

Asperger’s Disorder is sometimes observed in association with general medical conditions that should be coded on Axis III. Various nonspecific neurological symptoms or signs may be noted. Motor milestones may be delayed, and motor clumsiness is often observed.

Prevalence

Information on the prevalence of Asperger’s Disorder is limited, but it appears to be more common in males.

Course

Asperger’s Disorder appears to have a somewhat later onset than Autistic Disorder, or at least to be recognized somewhat later. Motor delays or motor clumsiness may be noted in the preschool period. Difficulties in social interaction may become more apparent in the context of school. It is
during this time that particular idiosyncratic or circumscribed interests (e.g., a fascination with train schedules) may appear or be recognized as such. As adults, individuals with the condition may have problems with empathy and modulation of social interaction. This disorder apparently
follows a continuous course and, in the vast majority of cases, the duration is lifelong.

Familial Pattern

Although the available data are limited, there appears to be an increased frequency of Asperger’s Disorder among family members of individuals who have the disorder.

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Last reviewed:
  On January 20, 2007
  By John M. Grohol, Psy.D.