Do I Have Autism or Asperger's Syndrome?

It is surprising to learn how many adults wonder if they fall under the autism spectrum or have Asperger’s Syndrome. Oftentimes they have wrestled throughout childhood or adolescence with hints at being different, but perhaps because of a lack of medical care or a parental preference for not receiving a diagnosis that was undesirable, they were never tested or diagnosed. Now, as adults, they are still wrestling with questions about being different and maybe even having Asperger’s Syndrome or a form of autism, and this wonderment is affecting their every thought and social interaction.

There are tests adults can take that will disclose if they may have a latent or severe case of Asperger’s Syndrome and also autism. Some adults may even do so via the Internet, and then armed with the knowledge garnered there, consider what the next step should be. The questions asked in such online tests usually have a four level response faction that ranges from “agree completely” to “disagree completely.” The values in between are “agree somewhat” and “disagree somewhat.”

The questions that these tasks ask are designed to measure the level of social interactivity a person seeks out versus endures. They ask about whether or not a person likes to do things with others or prefers solo activities, whether an established way of doing things is preferable to doing things in different ways, and also what the perception of others is with respect to social interactions the test taker undergoes. Other questions focus on the ability to work with, deal with, and also memorize numbers, recognize patterns, and general enjoyment that may be derived from things.

Another set of questions seeks to delve into the intricacies of interpersonal relationships and their nuances, such as reading between the lines during a conversation, starting a conversation as opposed to keeping it going, and also providing ample context for a conversation. What makes many of these tests highly effective is the way that they ask the same question in two or three different ways. This prevents misunderstanding and it also allows for a discovery of potential differences in the responses.

Granted, these online tests do not make an actual medical diagnosis, but it may tip off the individual who notices something about their ways of thinking and relating to others that there may be a need for further diagnosis. Additionally, those who might think so because of statements made by others may find their fears put to rest simply because their test does not even suggest that they should get a medical evaluation. Of course, if the latter is the case, they will do well to review their social skills on a more behavioral plane.

Receiving a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome or autism is not the end of the world. Additionally, it will enable the patient to make changes in their lifestyle and also in their way of relating to others that can make life on the whole a lot easier. Anyone who suspects that they might have Asperger’s Syndrome or a related condition will do well to seek out medical help as soon as possible.