The main difference between autism and Asperger's Syndrome is that autism is a broad term that covers a range of developmental disorders, while Asperger's Syndrome is a specific type of autism. While the two conditions share many common symptoms, there are also some distinct differences. In this article, we will discuss the key differences between autism and Asperger's Syndrome.
Diagnosis
When diagnosing autism or Asperger's Syndrome, doctors look for several key signs and symptoms. Autistic children often have difficulty communicating, interacting socially, and engaging in typical play behaviors. They may also have a hard time understanding language, social cues, and body language. Asperger's Syndrome, on the other hand, is usually diagnosed in children who have some difficulty in social situations but generally have better verbal skills and less severe language delays.
Social Skills
When it comes to social skills, autistic children often have difficulty understanding and responding to social cues. They may not make eye contact or respond to other people's emotions. They may also be overly sensitive to noise, light, and other stimuli. Asperger's Syndrome, on the other hand, generally does not cause these social difficulties. Instead, people with Asperger's Syndrome may have difficulty interpreting body language and facial expressions, and they may be unaware of social rules.
Communication
Autistic children often have difficulty communicating with others. They may have significant delays in language development or use language in an unusual way. They may also have difficulty understanding language, including abstract concepts. Asperger's Syndrome, on the other hand, typically does not cause these communication difficulties. People with Asperger's Syndrome may have difficulty understanding other people's perspectives or grasping abstract concepts, but they generally have good verbal skills and less severe language delays.
Repetitive Behaviors
Both autism and Asperger's Syndrome can cause repetitive behaviors, such as rocking or spinning. Autistic children may also engage in self-stimulatory behaviors, such as flapping their hands or repeating words or phrases. People with Asperger's Syndrome may also engage in repetitive behaviors, such as lining up objects or repeating certain words or phrases.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many differences between autism and Asperger's Syndrome. While both conditions can cause social and communication difficulties, there are some distinct differences between the two. Autistic children often have more severe communication and language delays, while people with Asperger's Syndrome generally have better verbal skills and less severe language delays. Additionally, autistic children may be more prone to self-stimulatory behaviors, while people with Asperger's Syndrome are more likely to engage in repetitive behaviors.