Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A distinct disorder refers to a specific condition or syndrome that is clearly different from other disorders or syndromes.
Related terms
Spectrum Disorder: A spectrum disorder refers to a range of conditions that vary in severity and symptoms but share similar characteristics. For example, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of symptoms and levels of impairment.
Comorbidity: Comorbidity is the presence of two or more disorders occurring together in an individual. In the case of Asperger's Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder, comorbidity could suggest significant overlap between the two disorders.
Diagnostic Criteria: Diagnostic criteria are established guidelines used by professionals to evaluate and diagnose specific disorders. The challenge related to the conceptualization of Asperger's Syndrome as a distinct disorder may involve reevaluating these diagnostic criteria to determine if they truly differentiate it from Autism Spectrum Disorder.