About Me

A contrarian strategist and poly...

Sunday, March 11, 2007

ASpies and OCD - the differences.

I have often pointed out the differences between Asperger's Syndrome and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. I have a friend who is convinced he is OCD, when in fact, I am certain he is ASpie. Totally unaccepting, he is. (Like that - a mini Yoda-ism) Here's a succinct statement ( or those who haven't seen it) from Aspie's Inc. http://aspiesinc.blogspot.com/index.html who says it better than I can (this is excerpted to save space, so forgive me):
"An Obsessive behavior is an avoidance behavior. The behavior does not bring pleasure or satisfaction to the individual. It is not done to get or achieve. Instead Obsessive behaviors are done to avoid some typically unrelated thing or feeling."
[Now as to ASpie behaviors]
"Firstly,
the individual in the Autism Spectrum is experiencing symptoms based on physical malformations in the brain. Most if not all Aspies are dealing with Sensory Integration Dysfunction (see the link). So repetitive movements such as spinning, rocking, jumping, touching or sniffing certain things are compensating for a deficit in the typical function of the brain. The movement can help the Aspie achieve a sense of calm and balance. ... Secondly, the person in the Autism Spectrum may have certain behaviors that help them cope with the world around them. Certain rituals that help them deal with a confusing world instead of having a melt down."

YUP.

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