High Functioning Autism and Aspergers
January 31st, 2010 | 
Author: I sit here thinking about Dakota. Dakota was diagnosed with High Functioning Autism in 2007 although a few of us question whether or not he has Aspergers. I am a little confused as back in 1994 Aspergers was referred to as High Functioning Autism and a lot of symptoms that Dakota does display do fall into Aspergers. When we go for the work up in Madison I will find out exactly where he is on the spectrum. Not that it really matters to me as with or with out the label Dakota is my sweet loving, complicated boy.
I am still looking into researching the difference between to the two. I watch this video on Aspergers and say this is Dakota right down to the T.
I also found another video about Aspergers and Anxiety and I really like how the lady explains the difference between aspergers and neurotypical people. Right now most of you know that I am battling the school to try and do something about the stress and anxiety I see in Dakota at school as well as his reactions at home. Maybe this will help explain the anxiety a little more. .
Posted in Autism | 
Tags: Asperger's Syndrome, aspergers, Aspergers and anxiety, HFA, High Functioning Autism
9 Responses to “High Functioning Autism and Aspergers”
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The main difference in the diagnostic criteria is that a child who had a language delay before age 3 doesn’t qualify for Asperger’s. So my son has an autism diagnosis even though he might look more like a kid with Asperger’s now at age 7 (almost 8).
But some clinicians may diagnose based on how the person is now regardless of their history. It seems to really depend on who you talk to!
.-= Trish´s last blog ..Still Struggling With This Limit Thing =-.
admin Reply:
January 31st, 2010 at 2:54 pm
That’s what I saw too is exactly what you said. Dakota had a speech delay and I wonder if that’s why she said High Functioning Autism. Then there are places that say they are the same. Go figure. Drives me bonkers. I watched the thing about stress and I think it fits all of autism and not just Aspergers.
Well just like you said, Dakota is so stinkin’ cute no matter which label he carries!
But on a side note, I also thought that part of the difference was the IQ. Asperger kids/adults have fairly high IQ’s compared to their peers as well as a huge vocab. Stacie, since you are on Facebook, there is a group(you might already know this) called Autism Awareness, anyways there are a TON of adults who have aspergers. I am friends with several(just got to knw them on the grp) and they have helped explain things to me from their perspective. Not that they are like Gannon, since they are have aspergers…but since they live this life they give me lots of ideas and help me understand. Many of these adults are married and high functioning. Many also used to be very profound. Like one kid(college aged high funct autism) helped explain to me why he liked to spin toys repeatedly….so that might be a resource. I LOVE FB!
.-= Sherri´s last blog ..Picture update =-.
admin Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 8:15 am
Hi Sherri, I am not sure if I am on the group Autism Awareness or not. I will have to check it out.
Yes, Trish, as far as I know that’s what I’ve heard too. If there is a language delay it can’t be Asperger’s. They are all so similar and not similar. I think each kid on the spectrum has there very own spot. Jaylen has some things here and not there. One of our coordinators said that a good definition of Autism is “consistently inconsistent.” That definitely sums it up.
Jaylen does have the anxiety you talked about. Glad I am not alone there. It is so sad to see a 3 year old with anxiety.
And I love what you wrote. I say that all the time. It doesn’t matter about the label, it is still the same kid!
admin Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 8:16 am
It’s nice to know I am not alone. Thanks for stopping by Jean! I appreciate the feed back too on the HFA and Aspergers.
I love what you wrote about the labeling. You have always inspired me with how strong a mother you are.
.-= Maria@Conversations with Moms´s last blog ..A surprise few days off =-.
admin Reply:
February 2nd, 2010 at 10:18 pm
Thanks Maria! Someday I don’t feel so strong. I guess it’s when you get to the point of frustration. Other days I feel like a Raging Bull and ready to stand where I need to for what’s best with Dakota.
Although I know I shouldn’t, I always feel so bad for Dakota. It has to be so hard to be in his shoes. But I also know that he is very loved, and he is fun and caring, and a very special little guy. You are a wonderful mommy, and I think you are doing a fantastic job raising awareness.
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