The term “Asperger’s syndrome” is no longer used in formal diagnoses. The DSM-5, the standard manual for mental health diagnoses, now categorizes Asperger’s under the broader umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autism presents a wide range of characteristics and histories.
Traditional Differences Between Asperger’s and Autism
Historically, Asperger’s syndrome was differentiated from other forms of autism based on language development and cognitive ability. People with Asperger’s were often described as having average or above-average intelligence and no significant language delays, though they might have struggled with social interactions and nonverbal cues. Today, these differences are understood as part of the broader autism spectrum, recognizing that each individual’s experience with autism is unique.
The Complicated Legacy of Hans Asperger
Hans Asperger, the Austrian doctor who first described the traits we now associate with Asperger’s syndrome, has a legacy that is complex and controversial.
- Ties to Nazi Ideology: Research has uncovered Asperger’s connection to Nazi eugenics programs. He referred children to Am Spiegelgrund, a clinic notorious for its horrifying treatment of disabled children, where many were subjected to euthanasia. This clinic became a place of suffering and loss for hundreds.
- A Shift in Views: Initially, Asperger’s descriptions of autistic traits were rather neutral, but as Nazi influence grew, his language shifted as well. Terms like “abnormal” and “psychopathic” began to surface in his work, raising questions about his motivations and the impact of the political climate on his views.
- Rethinking History: Historians like Edith Sheffer have shed light on how Asperger’s work aligned with eugenics ideology, prompting a reassessment of his role. Some see him as having protected autistic children from Nazi persecution, while others criticize his categorizing approach and his complicity with the regime.
Moving Forward
Today, “Asperger’s syndrome” is a loaded term, especially given the dark history behind its name. This realization has fueled calls within the autism community to rethink the language we use when talking about autism spectrum disorders. The DSM-5 has already made changes, categorizing Asperger’s under Autism Spectrum Disorder to reflect a more inclusive understanding of autism.
Shouldn’t this neurodifference be defined by the people who are neurodivergent? We may not all speak the same language, but can’t we agree to define these terms ourselves? Not by the mental health or medical industries—at the very least, let’s remove the word ‘syndrome.’ After all, it’s a spectrum!
Citations
[1] https://www.thetransmitter.org/spectrum/new-evidence-ties-hans-asperger-nazi-eugenics-program/
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hans_Asperger
[3] https://dsq-sds.org/index.php/dsq/article/view/7862/5906
[4] https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologist/aftermath-hans-asperger-expose
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