Asperger syndrome is a condition on the autism spectrum caused by a difference in neurological and cognitive development. The condition, despite being an information processing difference, rather than a behavioural condition, is characterised by behaviour in the following areas:
- social interaction
- social communication
- social imagination
In reality, this means that individuals with Asperger syndrome experience difficulties in social situations, managing independent living and coping with change, as they 'think' about the world differently than non-Asperger syndrome people.
Environmental sensitivity, although not mentioned specifically in the various diagnostic criteria for Asperger syndrome, are often said to feature as a factor for the majority of those with these conditions.
Due to the relatively recent awareness of the condition many adults have remained undiagnosed and increasingly more people are coming to realise that Asperger syndrome explains much of the issues they have faced throughout their lives so far.
For most people, this discovery is a huge relief and means they can move forward with the knowledge that they weren't to blame for being different.
There are many books and online resources which discuss the characteristics of Asperger syndrome, which varies from person to person.
Asperger syndrome affects all areas of a person's life, e.g. the way they think, the way they behave, sometimes what they eat, how they dress and how they spend their time.
A full and successful life has been achieved by many adults with Asperger syndrome who manage professional careers, relationships and independent lives. ASpire hopes to support others with Asperger syndrome in attaining their goals.
