Asperger Syndrome Diagnosis
To meet the criteria for an Asperger Syndrome diagnosis, a child must:
(A) Exhibit impairment in social interaction (see more below)
(B) Display restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior (see more below)
(C) Have clinically significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning
(D) Have no significant general delay in language
(E) Show no significant delay in cognitive development or in the development of self-help skills
(F) Not meet criteria for other pervasive developmental disorders or schizophrenia
More about criteria (A) and (B):
(A) An Asperger Syndrome diagnoses requires a qualitative impairment in social interaction, as characterized by at least two of the following:
- Impairment in the use of nonverbal behaviors, such as eye-to-eye gaze, facial expression, body postures, or gestures that regulate social interaction
- Failure to develop peer relationships appropriate to developmental level
- Lack of attempts to share enjoyment, interests, or achievements with others
- Lack of social or emotional reciprocity
(B) A child with Asperger Syndrome must show restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests, and activities, as manifested by at least one of the following:
- Exhibits preoccupation with one or more stereotyped and restricted patterns of interest that is abnormal either in intensity or focus
- Inflexible adherence to specific, nonfunctional routines or rituals
- Stereotyped and repetitive motor mannerisms
- Persistent preoccupation with parts of object
Adapted from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV).
