Adolescence is the transitional stage from childhood to adulthood that occurs between ages 13 and 19. The physical and psychological changes that take place in adolescence often start earlier, during the preteen or "tween" years: between ages 9 and 12.
Asperger's syndrome refers to a high-functioning form of autism . Although it was once classified as its own condition, Asperger’s is no longer an official diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The behavior ascribed to Asperger’s is now encompassed under the umbrella diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
The Link Between Adolescence and Asperger's Syndrome
Adolescence and Asperger's Syndrome are deeply interconnected psychological phenomena. Research shows that these two conditions frequently co-occur, with each often triggering or amplifying the other.
When someone experiences adolescence, it can create conditions that make asperger's syndrome more likely. Conversely, managing one can significantly improve outcomes for the other.
How Adolescence Affects Asperger's Syndrome
The presence of adolescence can impact asperger's syndrome in several important ways:
- Heightened nervous system activation from adolescence can intensify asperger's syndrome symptoms
- Both share common underlying mechanisms in the brain's stress response systems
- Addressing adolescence often leads to measurable improvements in asperger's syndrome
- The combination can create self-reinforcing cycles that require integrated treatment
Practical Strategies When Dealing with Both
When adolescence and asperger's syndrome occur together, a combined approach is most effective:
- Seek professional assessment — get an accurate picture of how each affects you
- Address underlying causes — identify shared root causes (sleep, stress, trauma)
- Use evidence-based interventions — CBT, mindfulness, and behavioral approaches work for both
- Build support networks — social connection buffers both conditions
- Track patterns — use journaling to see how they interact in your life