Asperger’s Syndrome is a term that was previously used to describe a neurodevelopmental condition considered to be on the autism spectrum. Individuals diagnosed with Asperger’s often faced challenges in social interactions and communication. They typically thrived on routine, exhibited a focused range of interests, and sometimes engaged in repetitive behaviors, such as hand-flapping.
Asperger’s was often referred to as a “high-functioning” form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This classification indicated that the symptoms associated with Asperger’s were generally less pronounced compared to other forms of ASD.
The Historical Context of Asperger’s
The term “Asperger’s syndrome” originates from Hans Asperger, a physician in Vienna during the Nazi era. In the 1940s, Dr. Asperger first identified a pattern of social difficulties in children under his care, a pattern that now characterizes this condition. Our current understanding of Asperger’s is largely built upon the foundational work of Hans Asperger.
However, the use of his name in connection with this syndrome has become a point of significant controversy. There are ongoing discussions regarding the ethical implications of his research, particularly concerning its potential alignment with Nazi “race hygiene” policies. These policies advocated for the extermination of individuals with disabilities and the forced sterilization of their parents.
Some historians argue that Asperger intentionally used language that portrayed children with milder autism traits as “high-functioning” to shield them from the deadly Nazi regime. Conversely, emerging research presents a more complex and disturbing narrative, suggesting that the Asperger’s label may have inadvertently led to harm and even the deaths of some children.
