Asperger’s Syndrome and Autism: Current Terminology
What the term Asperger’s syndrome means today, how autism is assessed in Australia, and how families can support an autistic child at school.
Asperger’s syndrome was once used as a separate diagnostic label. It is no longer a separate diagnosis in the current diagnostic manuals used by Australian health professionals. People who would previously have received that diagnosis may now be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
That change does not invalidate a person’s history or identity. Some people with an earlier diagnosis still use “Asperger’s” or “Aspie”, while others prefer “autistic person”, “person with autism” or another description. When referring to an individual, follow their preference.
What autism means
Autism is a lifelong developmental condition. It can affect communication, social interaction, sensory processing, routines, interests and the way a person experiences the world.
There is no single autistic personality or appearance. Autistic people have varied strengths, challenges and support needs. The support a person needs can also change with age, environment, health and major transitions.
Healthdirect’s overview of autism spectrum disorder explains the current terminology, common characteristics, assessment and available supports.
Autism is not diagnosed from one trait
Strong interests, social discomfort, sensory sensitivity or a preference for routine can occur for many reasons. An online quiz or list of traits cannot establish a diagnosis.
An autism assessment considers development, behaviour, communication and everyday functioning. It should also consider the person’s strengths, support needs and whether another or co-occurring condition could explain some of the concerns.
Australia has a National Guideline for the assessment and diagnosis of autism. Its recommendations are intended for practitioners and were approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council.
If you are concerned about your child’s development, speak with a GP, child and family health nurse or paediatrician. They can discuss the next step and whether a formal assessment is appropriate.
Common misunderstandings
“Every autistic person is the same”
Autism is highly variable. One person’s communication style, sensory profile, learning needs and independence do not predict another person’s.
“A person cannot be autistic if they make eye contact or have friends”
No single behaviour confirms or rules out autism. Some autistic people mask or consciously manage traits, and characteristics may be more apparent in one environment than another.
“Autism is caused by poor parenting”
It is not. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, not the result of parenting style.
“The goal of support is to make a child appear non-autistic”
Useful support should improve wellbeing, communication, participation, autonomy and access to learning. It should be individualised and respectful, not based only on making a child look or act more typical.
“A diagnosis tells you exactly what support a child needs”
A diagnosis can help explain a pattern of development and open pathways to support, but planning still needs to be based on the individual child. Needs should be reviewed over time.
Supporting an autistic student
Work with the child and school to identify specific barriers. Helpful adjustments might include predictable routines, clear instructions, sensory changes, alternative ways to communicate or demonstrate learning, movement or quiet breaks, and preparation for transitions.
Australian education providers must consult and consider reasonable adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education 2005. A diagnosis can provide useful information, but the practical question is what will help this student access and participate in education on the same basis as their peers.
Respect the child’s communication, privacy and preferred language. The most useful plan is one built with the child where possible, informed by family and professionals, and tested against how well it supports everyday learning and wellbeing.