Definition: Asperger syndrome is a high functioning form of autistic disorder. This disorder is referred to as a spectrum disorder because it has a wide range of severity from mild to debilitating. No two people with Asperger syndrome are alike. The syndrome refers to the milder forms of autism. Students with Asperger syndrome are typically of average or higher intelligence. Some are gifted. People with Asperger syndrome may have some of the common autistic symptoms but not others. Often people with the syndrome are highly literal in their understanding of language. They may not understand metaphor, irony, or jokes. They may be unable to pick up on social cues and non-verbal communication. They are often rigid in their routines and rules and have little tolerance for change or unpredictability.
Children with Asperger syndrome are sometimes called "little professors" because they are very analytical in their thinking and obsessively attentive to detail. They may also avoid eye contact and form unusual attachments to objects. Tactile sensitivity is also common.
More on Autistic Disorders
Also Known As: high functioning autism
Common Misspellings: Asberger's Syndrome
Examples:
People with Asperger syndrome often lead independent and productive lives.
