What are Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism?
Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism are types of autism spectrum disorders. Autism spectrum disorders range from classical autism to milder forms like high-functioning autism and Asperger syndrome. Symptoms occur in three areas: language or communication, reciprocal social interaction—like being able to have a friend or to engage in interactive conversations—and rigid or repetitive patterns of behavior and interest. To have a diagnosis of high-functioning autism or Asperger syndrome, you also need to have an IQ in the average or above average range. The difference between Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism is that individuals with Asperger syndrome don’t have a language delay. In autism, single words aren’t acquired before two years of age. What causes autism–spectrum disorders? Autism–spectrum disorders, in general, have a large genetic component. There are some studies going on now taking a look at environmental factors. I think, in five years, we’ll know more ab
