Asperger Syndrome (AS)

My particular brand of autism is called Asperger Syndrome (AS). It manifests itself in various ways according to individual, but many "aspies" have very good memory and intense focus, but find it difficult to socialise.

AS was first described in 1944, but it wasn't until 1994 that it was officially recognised. Lots of research has followed. The incidence rate has been found to be as high as 1 in 500.

I discovered that I have AS at the age of 29. Many persons with this form of autism are diagnosed very late, or not at all, because there are no visible signs. These are often simply classified as odd, or slightly eccentric, or cold, or cruel. They may get a constant stream of negative reports from school, and then pass every exam with flying colours. They can have successful careers and be seen as great achievers. What often goes unnoticed is that they tend to be rather unsuccessful in social life. Parties, get-togethers, discos and other social gatherings can make them feel uncomfortable. Some of them manage to find the right partner and lead a happy, married life; others don't.

Why is it so difficult for an Aspie to 'feel' what others are feeling?

Aspies do not feel the same emotions that others do. They feel different emotions for different situations. A situation which would not evoke any emotions worth mentioning in a 'normal' person might cause intense emotions in an aspie, and vice versa. So it is very difficult for an aspie to find a common reference point with which to compare. The "How can I?" page might help to explain this.

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