Asperger's Syndrome vs. Autism

Autism is a disorder of neural development characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior and signs of autism usually begin before the child is three years old. They also have an IQ of less than 70. Asperger's Syndrome is a developmental disorder characterized by sustained impairment in social interactions and nonverbal communications, and signs of Asperger's usually begin in the early elementary school years. Autism is considered a "Spectrum Disorder" because there are many forms and a broad range of symptoms. Asperger's Syndrome is considered to be on the highest end of the spectrum because those affected are the highest functioning, whereas a lower functioning person with Autism would be at the other end of the spectrum. People with Asperger's tend to have fewer developmental delays, obsessed with complex topics, and clumsiness is more frequently seen. Researchers say Asperger's Syndrome could be hereditary and neurological disorders are less common.