Asperger Syndrome

A neurodevelopmental condition previously classified as a distinct diagnosis within the autism spectrum, characterized by difficulties with social interaction and nonverbal communication, alongside restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. Unlike autistic disorder, individuals with Asperger Syndrome typically do not have significant delays in language or cognitive development. The diagnosis was removed as a separate category in the DSM-5 (2013) and folded into the broader diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, many individuals and advocacy communities continue to use the term as an identity label. People with Asperger Syndrome often report particular difficulty reading facial expressions, understanding social cues, and navigating the unwritten rules of social interaction.