Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam 2025 - Free Special Education Practice Questions and Study Guide

A key characteristic of children with Asperger's Syndrome is normal language development paired with social impairments. Unlike children with other forms of autism, those with Asperger's Syndrome typically develop language skills at a pace that is considered typical for their age. However, they often struggle with the social aspects of communication. This means that while their vocabulary and grammatical skills may be strong, they may have difficulty understanding nonverbal cues, engaging in reciprocal conversations, or interpreting social nuances.

This unique profile distinguishes Asperger's from other developmental disorders, where more significant language delays are common. Individuals with Asperger's might display idiosyncratic use of language or focus intensely on specific interests, which can further complicate social interactions. The combination of strong language skills and social challenges is fundamental in understanding how Asperger's Syndrome manifests, making the selection of normal language development paired with social impairments the most accurate choice.