Explained by a Psychologist: Asperger’s or Autism – What’s the Deal?

What is—or was—Asperger’s?

The National Autistic Society’s terminology guide explains that Asperger syndrome was retired as a separate diagnosis in DSM-5 and ICD-11. Some people still use an earlier diagnosis to describe themselves.

If you are seeking a new evaluation, ask about autism assessment rather than a separate “Asperger’s test.” If you already have an older report, bring it to the clinician so the terminology can be interpreted in context.

What does an autism assessment consider?

The CDC’s explanation of DSM-5 criteria covers social communication and interaction alongside restricted or repetitive patterns, including sensory differences. Clinicians consider developmental history and the effect on daily life; no single preference or personality trait makes the diagnosis.

For everyday examples, explore autism traits in men: 12 signs that are often overlooked. That guide explains why illustrative experiences should not be used as a diagnostic scorecard.

Support levels are not intelligence categories

DSM-5 support levels describe support needs in the diagnostic domains. They are not IQ bands, and an old Asperger’s diagnosis should not automatically be replaced with “Level 1.” Someone’s verbal skills or outward success do not fully describe the help they may need.

Instead of asking whether someone is “high functioning,” ask a practical question: What can they do comfortably, what takes effort, and what support is needed? A useful description might explain communication preferences, sensory accommodations, or help with a specific daily task.

A person can have clear strengths and still need support. Avoid assuming either exceptional abilities or a particular limitation from a diagnostic label.

Why the name also raises historical concerns

Hans Asperger was an Austrian physician whose name became attached to the diagnosis. Historian Herwig Czech’s 2018 archival study in Molecular Autism documents his involvement with Nazi-era racial hygiene policies and cooperation with the child “euthanasia” program. This history is another reason some people reject the term.

That history should not be used to judge a person who received the diagnosis or still identifies with it. Ask how they want to be described, and avoid making assumptions about what the name means to them personally.

How to talk about autism respectfully

• Ask about wording. Some people prefer “autistic person”; others prefer “person with autism” or their earlier diagnostic term.
• Describe needs specifically. “Needs a quieter meeting space” is more useful than a broad functioning label.
• Check your interpretation. A quiet response, different eye contact, or direct language should not be treated as proof that someone does not care.
• Keep the person involved. Let them explain which experiences matter and what kind of help they want.

Support should begin with the person’s goals. If you are looking for ongoing help rather than diagnostic clarification, review our therapy services and ask about suitability.

Choose the assessment that fits your question

Not sure which service fits? Meet our clinical team or contact the office with your assessment goals. Confirm that the clinician can see you in the state where you will be physically located; our telehealth guide explains the location checks.

If you need documentation for accommodations, ask the receiving organization what it requires before booking. Neither a diagnosis nor approval of accommodations is guaranteed.

View evaluation booking options Try the optional autism screening quiz

A quiz can help organize questions. It cannot diagnose or rule out autism, and you do not need a particular score to request an evaluation.