ADHD and Asperger’s are two conditions that are often confused because they have some overlap in characteristics such as social difficulties and impulsiveness. Additionally, it’s common for people to have both conditions.1 However, there are also several key differences between the two conditions.
The condition, formerly known as Asperger’s syndrome (now referred to as an autism spectrum disorder), is mainly characterized by social and communication difficulties.2 Meanwhile, ADHD is characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and attention.3
At a Glance
ADHD and Asperger’s share some common features, but they are distinct. In some cases, people may have both conditions, which may complicate diagnosis and treatment.
People with Asperger’s tend to have narrow interests and engage in repetitive behaviors. People with ADHD tend to have broad, varied interests and struggle with boredom and routine. Both are types of neurodivergence and aren’t conditions that need to be “fixed” or “cured.” Instead, understanding how neurodivergent brains work and recognizing their strengths can help people understand their characteristics and thrive.
Symptoms of ADHD and Asperger’s
The characteristics of Asperger’s and ADHD can overlap, but there are also some key differences. Both conditions can cause social difficulties, but people with Asperger’s typically have more significant problems in this area. They may have trouble understanding social cues and may prefer to be alone.
People with ADHD, on the other hand, may be more likely to seek out social interaction but then have difficulty sustaining it due to their impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Key Differences Between Asperger’s vs. ADHD
Below is a bullet point list of some of the characteristics of each condition and how they are similar or different.
- People with Asperger’s often have narrow interests and may become obsessed with certain topics.4 People with ADHD tend to have broader interests that may change frequently or impulsively.
- Asperger’s is characterized by repetitive behaviors,4 while ADHD is not.
- People with Asperger’s may have difficulty with change and need routines,5 while people with ADHD may seek out change and dislike routines.
- People with Asperger’s often have problems with motor coordination,6 while people with ADHD do not typically have this problem.
- May have fewer interests and become obsessed with particular topics
- Repetitive behaviors
- A person may like routine and dislike change
- Marked by motor coordination difficulties
- May have broader interests that change more frequently or impulsively
- No repetitive behaviors
- A person may dislike routine and welcome change
- Motor coordination difficulties are not present
Causes of ADHD and Asperger’s
Asperger’s and ADHD are both neurodevelopmental disorders, which means they are caused by problems with brain development. It is not known exactly what causes these problems, but it is thought that both genetics and environment play a role.
Causes of Asperger’s
Some research suggests that Asperger’s may be linked to a problem with the wiring and connections in different networks in the brain.6
It is also thought that Asperger’s may be linked to abnormalities with the neurotransmitter serotonin.7
Causes of ADHD
Some research suggests that ADHD may be linked to a problem with the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. This theory is supported by the fact that people with ADHD often respond well to medications that affect dopamine and norepinephrine levels.3
Diagnosing ADHD and Asperger’s
Both ADHD and Asperger’s are diagnosed based on symptoms. There is no medical or laboratory test for either condition. Instead, doctors typically use history, interviews, and behavior rating scales to make a diagnosis.
It is important to note that both conditions can be diagnosed in childhood, but the characteristics may change over time.
Asperger’s Diagnosis
Asperger’s is typically diagnosed in childhood. To be diagnosed with Asperger’s, a person must have significant problems with social interaction and communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors, while typically having good verbal skills.
The term Asperger’s was replaced with autism spectrum disorder in the fifth edition of the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders” (DSM-5).8 Below are some of the diagnostic criteria for a diagnosis:
- Significant problems with social interaction
- Deficits in non-verbal communication
- Repetitive behaviors or interests
- Insistence on sameness and inflexibility
ADHD Diagnosis
ADHD is also typically diagnosed in childhood.9 To be diagnosed with ADHD, a person must have problems with hyperactivity, impulsivity, and attention.
ADHD can be divided into three subtypes: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, and combined presentation.
Below are some traits associated with each type:
Inattentive:
- Problems with paying attention
- Easily distracted
- Difficulty following instructions
Hyperactive/impulsive:
- Excessive activity
- Problems with waiting for turns or taking turns
- Talking excessively
Combined:
- Symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types.
Treatment for ADHD and Asperger’s
It is important to properly diagnose ADHD and Asperger’s because the treatments are different. There is no cure for either condition, but there are treatments that can help people function more effectively in their environments.
Asperger’s Treatment
There is no medication to “treat” Asperger’s because it is not a condition that needs to be cured or fixed. Instead, it is a neurotype characterized by differences in how a person’s brain functions.
Sometimes, medications or therapy may help people with Asperger’s manage certain aspects of mood, anxiety, and behavior.
There is no specific treatment for Asperger’s, but there are treatments that can help people cope with challenges. These treatments typically involve accommodations, speech-language therapy, and occupational therapy.10
Medications may also be prescribed to help with specific symptoms, such as anxiety or depression.
ADHD Treatment
Treatments for ADHD typically involve medication, educational accommodations, and neurodiversity-affirming therapy.11
Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants and non-stimulants. Educational accommodations involve working with teachers to help children with ADHD learn better in school.
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy can help people with ADHD and Asperger’s learn to appreciate their strengths and cope with the challenges of living in a neurotypical-centered society.
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent Asperger’s or ADHD, given that the causes are unknown. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help minimize symptoms and improve functioning.
Below are some tips for parents of children with Asperger’s or ADHD:
- Be patient
- Encourage positive behavior
- Provide structure and routine
- Support social interaction
- Teach self-regulation skills
Summary
In summary, Asperger’s and ADHD are both conditions that are diagnosed based on symptoms. There is no medical test for either condition. The causes of Asperger’s and ADHD are unknown, but they are thought to be linked to problems with the wiring of the brain or neurotransmitters.
There is no cure for either condition, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve symptoms and quality of life.
What This Means For You
If you think you or your child may have Asperger’s or ADHD, it is important to talk to a doctor. These conditions can be difficult to manage on your own and there are treatments that can help. Early diagnosis and treatment is important for the best possible outcome.