If you grew up hearing about Asperger's syndrome — or if you or your child received that diagnosis before 2013 — you may have been confused, or even upset, to hear it no longer officially exists as a separate diagnosis. This deserves a clear, honest answer.
A Brief History
Asperger's syndrome was first described by Austrian paediatrician Hans Asperger in 1944. It was formally added to the DSM-IV in 1994 to describe individuals on the autism spectrum without significant early language delay and often highly verbal and intellectually able.
In 2013, the DSM-5 collapsed Asperger's, Autistic Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and PDD-NOS into a single umbrella: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
So Are They the Same?
Technically — yes. Asperger's syndrome is now considered part of the autism spectrum. The change was scientific: the distinction between Asperger's and high-functioning autism wasn't clinically reliable.
In Ireland the ICD-11 made a similar consolidation.
Why It Still Matters to Many People
- ♥Identity. The label often became a central part of identity.
- ♥Community. A strong global and Irish community exists.
- ♥Access to services. Previous Asperger's diagnoses are still recognised in Ireland.
- ♥Stigma. Some feel the autism label carries more stigma than Asperger's.
There is no obligation for anyone who identifies as having Asperger's to abandon that language. Identity is personal.
If any of this resonates — you don't have to figure it out alone. Amanda offers free initial consultations.
Book a Free CallWhat Changed in Practice for Children Today
Children assessed today in Ireland receive an ASD diagnosis with a support level:
- ♥Level 1: Requires support
- ♥Level 2: Requires substantial support
- ♥Level 3: Requires very substantial support
A child who would previously have been diagnosed with Asperger's typically receives a Level 1 ASD diagnosis today.
About Hans Asperger Himself
In 2018 historical research by Herwig Czech published in Molecular Autism revealed that Hans Asperger collaborated with the Nazi regime in Austria. This has led many in the community to further distance themselves from the label — though it does not invalidate the experiences of those who still identify with it.
What This Means for Your Child
If your child has a recent ASD diagnosis, they are entitled to the same supports as those previously diagnosed with Asperger's. If you have an older Asperger's diagnosis, it may be worth reviewing it with current terminology. Speak to your GP, SENO or CDNT. AsIAm (asiam.ie) and Autism Ireland (autismireland.ie) provide up-to-date guidance.
Language should serve the person — not the diagnostic manual.