Adding in on maradydd's comment that a difference only becomes a disorder when it negatively affects your life or the lives of those around you.
One of the problems inherent with the sudden influx of AS claims is that so many people are trying to use their differences as an excuse to not take responsibility for their own actions. It doesn't matter if somebody is AS or merely socially awkward, being a member of society includes the intrinsic agreement to be responsible for one's actions. A disorder label (whether AS or something else) is not carte blanche to completely disregard the well-being of one's fellow people. Unfortunately, it is much easier to say "It's not my fault, I have (insert condition here) and can't help myself" than it is to be an adult and own up to one's own actions and statements. The real disorder -- the thing that is negatively affecting the quality of life -- isn't Asperger's, it's a growing apathy towards the concepts of growth and accountability.
It also has the side effect of trivializing the experiences of others who may be dealing with AS or even full-blown autism, making it even more difficult for people who really need help to get the help they need. But this is a lesser symptom compared to the overarching responsibility issues seen today.
I know this because Tyler knows this.
One of the problems inherent with the sudden influx of AS claims is that so many people are trying to use their differences as an excuse to not take responsibility for their own actions. It doesn't matter if somebody is AS or merely socially awkward, being a member of society includes the intrinsic agreement to be responsible for one's actions. A disorder label (whether AS or something else) is not carte blanche to completely disregard the well-being of one's fellow people. Unfortunately, it is much easier to say "It's not my fault, I have (insert condition here) and can't help myself" than it is to be an adult and own up to one's own actions and statements. The real disorder -- the thing that is negatively affecting the quality of life -- isn't Asperger's, it's a growing apathy towards the concepts of growth and accountability.
It also has the side effect of trivializing the experiences of others who may be dealing with AS or even full-blown autism, making it even more difficult for people who really need help to get the help they need. But this is a lesser symptom compared to the overarching responsibility issues seen today.