Unpacking How ‘Asperger’s’ Contributes to Division in the Autism Community

• Is Asperger syndrome a severe form of autism spectrum disorder?
• How does Asperger’s compare to autism intelligence?
• What is life like for someone with Asperger’s?

Above are the typical questions Autistics and families of Autistics get asked often. Words matter. They can be inclusive or divisive. Because we can never know how an individual feels about a word or events surrounding a word, its always best to ask or use formal terminology. If you can’t remember either choice, silence is always an option.

The use of the term “Asperger’s” within the autistic community and broader discussions about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has become a topic of debate and sensitivity for several reasons, leading some to avoid its use in favour of more inclusive or neutral terminology. Here are the key reasons why the term “Asperger’s” can perpetuate negative bias and why it may be viewed unfavourably by some within the autistic community:

1. Association with Hans Asperger: The term “Asperger’s syndrome” originates from Hans Asperger, an Austrian pediatrician who, during World War II, identified a group of children with distinct psychological characteristics. Recent historical research has revealed that Asperger cooperated with the Nazi regime’s eugenics policies, including the forced sterilization and euthanasia of disabled individuals. This association with Nazi eugenics has led to a reevaluation of his legacy and a push to distance the autistic community from his name.
2. Pathologizing Language: The term “Asperger’s syndrome” is sometimes criticized for pathologizing individuals, implying a disease or disorder that needs to be cured or fixed. Many within the autistic community prefer identity-first language (e.g., “autistic person” rather than “person with autism”) and view autism as a difference rather than a disorder. The specific label of “Asperger’s” can be seen as reinforcing a medical model of disability rather than a social model that focuses on societal barriers and acceptance.
3. False Perception of Homogeneity: Using specific labels like “Asperger’s” can contribute to stereotypes about what autism looks like, potentially overshadowing the diversity within the autistic community. It may reinforce a narrow view of autism as being associated only with those who are verbal or have certain intellectual or academic abilities, ignoring the wide range of experiences and needs within the community.
4. Hierarchy within the Autism Spectrum: The term “Asperger’s” has been used in the past to denote a “milder” form of autism, sometimes leading to a perceived hierarchy within the autism spectrum. This can invalidate the experiences and challenges faced by those who don’t fit this narrow definition, and it can perpetuate the idea that some autistic experiences are more “acceptable” or “normal” than others.
5. Diagnostic Criteria Changes: The diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorders have evolved. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), published by the American Psychiatric Association in 2013, removed Asperger’s syndrome as a separate diagnosis and merged it into the broader category of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This change reflects a move towards understanding autism as a spectrum with varying degrees of support needs rather than as distinct subtypes. This shift in diagnostic criteria has also influenced the language professionals and advocates use.
6. Self-Identification and Community Preferences: Some individuals diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome before the diagnostic criteria change may still identify with the term, and it’s important to respect personal identification choices. However, the broader movement towards more inclusive and less stigmatizing language reflects a community preference towards unity and recognition of diversity within the spectrum.