Autism vs. Asperger Syndrome

ASD is a wide diagnostic term, which encompass disorders previously referred as: Autistic Disorder, Kanner's Autism or Classic Autism, Early Infantile Autism or Childhood Autism, Atypical Autism, Asperger Syndrome, High-functioning Autism, Rett Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified, (APA, 1994; APA, 2013; Autism Speaks, 2012). 

ASD is the current psychiatric term used nowadays, the concept of spectrum implies all the diversity of characteristics that te condition embraces (APA, 2013).

If we are comparing the terms of Autistic Disorder and Asperger Syndrome, used before the DSM-5, we can affirm that, according to Autism Speaks (2012), in the Autistic Disorder the symptoms, related with communication, language and repetitive and restrictive behaviours, are obvious; while in a child with Asperger Syndrome that might not be the clear at a first instance: “In AS, the child doesn't show a significant delay in language development.” 

The individuals with Asperger Syndrome tend to have a superior IQ than that of individuals with Austistic Disorder. Although, both conditions are characterised by issues related to social interaction and communication and sensory perception.

In terms of levels of severity, Asperger Syndrome is more likely to be considered to lay on level 1 or 2 of required support, while Autistic Disorder is more likely to be considered on level 2 or 3.