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Important note 1
Autism and Asperger syndrome are all part of the same autistic spectrum and the differences between them relate more to degree than anything else. However, people at the more able end of the spectrum, such as those with Asperger syndrome, tend to have average or above average intelligence and generally have fewer problems with language, often speaking fluently though their words can sometimes sound formal or stilted.
Social interaction
Problems engaging in reciprocal social interactions A severely affected individual will seem aloof and uninterested in people where someone less affected (but still affected) passively accepts social contact, even showing some pleasure in it, though he/she does not make spontaneous approaches.
http://www.autism.org.uk/working-with/health/information-for-general-practitioners/i... 02-01-2012
Important facts about autism and Asperger syndrome for GPs - | autism | Asperger syn... Page 2 of 3
Social communication
A lack of appreciation of the social uses and the pleasure of communication is always present in some form or other A significant proportion of people with classic autism fail to develop useful speech. If language is used, there is a failure to understand that it is a tool for conveying information to others. Some ask for their own needs but have difficulty in talking about feelings or thoughts and in understanding the emotions, ideas and beliefs of other people.
Social imagination
Inability to play imaginatively with objects or toys or other children/adults Pretend play can be absent or repetitive. A tendency to select for attention minor or trivial aspects of things in the environment instead of an imaginative understanding of the meaning of the whole scene is often found. Some imaginative activities may be displayed but these are usually copied, for example from TV programmes. This play may seem complex, but careful observation shows its rigidity and stereotyped nature.
Important note 2
These manifestations vary with the severity of the disability - changes occur with age, especially in those with higher levels of ability.
Important note 3
The presence of additional disorders, such as epilepsy, sensory impairments, Down's syndrome, or other physical disabilities can affect the clinical picture.
Important note 4
All people have their own personality, which affects their reactions to their disabilities.
http://www.autism.org.uk/working-with/health/information-for-general-practitioners/i... 02-01-2012
Important facts about autism and Asperger syndrome for GPs - | autism | Asperger syn... Page 3 of 3
[Administrative offices only] VAT registration number: 653370050; registered as a charity in England and Wales (269425) and in Scotland (SC039427) The National Autistic Society 2011
http://www.autism.org.uk/working-with/health/information-for-general-practitioners/i... 02-01-2012