What is Asperger Syndrome?

Asperger Syndrome is a complex developmental disability marked by impairments in socialization, communication, cognition, and sensation. Like classic autism, Asperger Syndrome is a neurological disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate and relate to others. It is a lifelong disorder that carries with it considerable and long-term challenges. Although the characteristics of Asperger Syndrome will vary somewhat from person to person, common effects of the disorder include:

  • Trouble understanding social cues and conversational language styles
  • An inflexible adherence to routine or ritual
  • Repetition of movements or words and phrases
  • Difficulties with fine-motor skills and sensory integration
  • A persistent preoccupation with objects or narrowly focused topics of interest