In discussing the differentiation between autism and Asperger syndrome, the paper aims to re-examine similarities and differences in symptomatology with reference both to the history of Asperger syndrome and to current research. Symptoms that have been suggested as possibly differential for diagnosis and shared diagnostic features are separately considered. Although the paucity of reliable research findings allows few definitive conclusions to be drawn, it is suggested that attempts to identify subtypes and achieve a greater understanding of the behavioural heterogeneities within autistic spectrum or pervasive developmental disorders is crucial to improving both clinical practice and research.
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