There is a confusing similarity between Aperger's Syndrome(AS) and Nonverbal Learning Disorder(NLD).But one plain fact is that somebody with AS or NLD can be just as smart as anyone else, too even, or even smarter. The difference between neurotypical people -those without any diagnosed disorders- and those with NLD or AS is in how they process information , interact with others , and see the world.
Asperger’s Syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder , or part of a range of conditions that all include difficulties in the areas of communication and social skills,relationships with others, and certain restrictive or repetitive behaviors. Relatively less is spoken about Nonverbal Learning Disorder(NLD).
While AS is much to do with the social, occupational and areas of life, the NLD is diagnosed when there is a pattern of serious weaknesses demonstrating that the type of skills traditionally thought to be based in the right hemisphere, or half, of the brain are much weaker than those usually associated with the left hemisphere. To define Nonverbal Learning Disorder in simple words, it is a kind of trouble reading nonverbal body language signs such as anger, happiness or silliness. Or, it may be imperfectly describing as a disorder where one processes information primarily based on hearing, not seeing it.
Interestingly, there are some common traits between AS and NLD. Some examples like challenge in making and keeping friends, keeping eye contact are common amongst both types of disorder.
We also notice impairment of gross and fine motor skills in NLD and Asperger's syndrome. Both are characterized with black and white thinking and they find it difficult to cope with any change in the routine. Both display similar issues in terms executive functioning , difficulties in organizing , monitoring and prioritizing activities and dealing with behavioral changes.
Certain symptoms we see in AS are very specific to itself, not usually identified with Nonverbal Learning Disorder. people with Asperger's disorder are generally good at visual tasks, and they are often good visual thinkers. Repetitive behaviors are more common in AS rather than NLD. Sometimes, we see above average intelligence in AS and also, people affected with AS show usually some intense interests or intense focus on parts of objects.
Some characteristics are very specific to Nonverbal Learning Disorder. The primary feature is the difficulty with visual tasks and auditory processors. They may have delayed speech, sometimes due to delay in fine motor development. Usually we do not see above-average intelligence , that we often see amongst people with asperger's syndrome.
Attribution: Adapted from 'Take Control of Asperger's Syndrome', Janet price & Jennifer Engel Fisher.
