Asperger is one of the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), a neurological condition that affects a person’s speech or social skills. Normally, this is diagnosed by late childhood but there are cases when a person would only be diagnosed during adulthood. How to spot Aspergers in adults? Read on here.
What is Asperger Syndrome?
Asperger is a developmental condition characterized as “high-functioning” autism. People diagnosed with ASD may exhibit a fixated interest and repeated behaviors. Due to the symptoms of this disorder, a lot of people with Asperger have a hard time functioning in society because they are unable to fully understand non-verbal cues. They also have difficulty in fully communicating or interacting with other people. For people with Asperger, they usually lack social skills as they have less interest in other people and more interest in unique interests that take up most of their time and attention.
Diagnosis and attention on Asperger in adults was only given attention recently, even if it is one of the common medical conditions in child and teen psychiatry.
What are the common signs of Asperger?
Those with Asperger process information differently than most people. They usually have average or high IQ, but are unable to cope well in social situations. To spot Asperger’s in adults or children alike, you can refer to the following common characteristics of those diagnosed.
- Difficulty in expressing or communicating their thoughts and feelings
- Struggle in understanding other people and how they think
- Making friends is difficult
- They have difficulty starting a conversation and maintaining the interaction
- Difficulty in using their imagination
- Excessive interest in specific hobbies or topics
- Adhere to a strict routine or schedule
Looks don’t play a part in diagnosing Asperger or autism. In this condition, speech and behavior are what is commonly affected. m.
Although no cases are the same, there are still characteristics commonly observed in adults diagnosed with this condition. You can seek an official medical diagnosis to spot Asperger’s in adults.
How to spot Aspergers in adults?
Since Asperger’s was classified in 2013 under the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), we can look at autism as a whole in determining when to seek diagnosis based on the following factors.
- Received a mental health diagnosis during childhood or teenage years but you suspect it may be autism or Aspergers
- Feeling secluded or different from society
- If a family member or relative was diagnosed with autism or Aspergers specifically and the symptoms seem familiar to you
For people only diagnosed as an adult, knowing that their problems in socializing, communication, and behavior are related to autism is a comfort. Knowing about their condition helps them recognize their feelings and experiences, and it also gives them the chance to choose a better support system.
Diagnosis of Aspergers in adults
As soon as you spot signs of Asperger’s in adults, consult a doctor who can help properly diagnose your condition.
In diagnosing Asperger’s in adults, your psychiatrist will discuss your childhood and social experiences. Consulting a speech therapist may also help in the diagnosis by measuring your communication skills.
The Adult Asperger Assessment (AAA) is also a tool developed to specifically help in diagnosing Asperger’s in adults. It makes use of two screening methods that measure your empathy and autism spectrum.
Key Takeaways
Aspergers in adults is common even though the condition is usually diagnosed in childhood. Many adults with Aspergers are still able to function well in society and lead fulfilling lives. It may be difficult to deal with this type of disorder but you can still live a full life without being overly dependent on people.
Learn more about Developmental Disorders here.
