Aspie Quiz

By NeuroSpark Health

The term "aspie quiz" is a commonly searched phrase online, referencing a self-assessment tool often used by individuals seeking to explore traits associated with autism, particularly those linked to the historical term "Asperger's Syndrome." While the quiz can provide insight into neurodivergent traits, it’s important to contextualize its use within modern understandings of autism, including the shift away from "Asperger's" as a diagnostic term. It is helpful to understand the history of the term "aspie," the reasons for the reclassification of "Asperger's Syndrome," concerns like "aspie supremacy," and why neuroaffirming frameworks are essential as we advocate for neurodiversity acceptance across cultures.

What Does "Aspie" Mean?

The term "aspie" originates from "Asperger's Syndrome," a diagnosis once used to describe a subgroup of autistic people who were perceived as exhibiting "milder" characteristics of autism. Individuals with this label were often described as socially awkward, highly intelligent, and hyperfocused on specific interests. Over time, "aspie" became a colloquial identifier within the autism community, particularly among those who resonated with traits associated with Asperger's. Now, online “aspie quizzes” are still used as a self-reflection tool for those wondering if they relate to the autism neurotype.

Why Is "Asperger's Syndrome" No Longer a Diagnosis?

In 2013, the release of the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) marked a significant change in how autism was understood and diagnosed. Asperger's Syndrome was subsumed into the broader diagnosis of autism, with "autism spectrum" being used to describe a range of presentations and support needs. This shift was made for several reasons:

Overlap in Traits: Research revealed no significant differences in brain function or traits between individuals labeled with Asperger's and those labeled with "high-functioning autism,” which is another outdated term that has since been replaced with “level 1 autism” or “low support needs.” Essentially, researchers found that there was no reason to have a distinct diagnosis such as Asperger’s Syndrome when it could be just as accurately described by a diagnosis of autism since autism exists as a spectrum of traits rather than one specific experience.
Issues with "Functioning Labels": Terms like "high-functioning autism" or "mild autism" were misleading and often dismissed the challenges faced by individuals while terms like “low-functioning” and “severe autism” were used to deny autistic individuals autonomy. Autistic people in general, regardless of what mix of autistic traits they have, usually require some amount of support or accommodations. When Asperger’s Syndrome was a diagnosis, it was usually given to individuals that were also labeled as “high-fuinctioning,” which contributed to the misconception that they did not require any support. Even if these individuals would be considered as having “low support needs” in today’s system, that does not mean that they didn’t need any support at all. Now, with the current system of recognizing individuals’ support needs rather than using functioning labels, we recognize that all autistic people deserve both support and autonomy.
Problematic Origins: Hans Asperger, after whom the syndrome was named, has been linked to unethical, brutal, and disgusting practices during his association with the Nazi regime. Essentially, Asperger’s goal was to protect the autistic children who presented as highly intelligent or were seemingly less disabled while not protecting and willingly sending the autistic children who did not meet his standards to concentration camps to be systemically killed. This sickening history understandably further solidified the need to discontinue using his name in clinical and cultural contexts.

By recognizing all presentations under one autism umbrella and as a spectrum promotes inclusivity and acknowledges the diversity of experiences within the neurotype, despite “aspie quiz” still being a relatively common thing found online. Additionally, moving away from the term “Asperger’s Syndrome” and utilizing support needs labels rather than functioning labels are beneficial for the autistic community as a whole.

Negative Effects of "Aspie Supremacy"

While the term "aspie" has been embraced by some as a point of pride, it has also given rise to concerning dynamics, including "aspie supremacy." This phenomenon refers to the belief that individuals previously labeled with Asperger's or who identify with the label are inherently superior to other autistic people.

Reinforcement of Harmful Stereotypes: Aspie supremacy often perpetuates the myth that intelligence or verbal ability determines someone's worth, dismissing the experiences of those with different or higher support needs. In many ways, it essentially perpetuates, albeit to an obviously lesser degree, what Hans Asperger began during his work with the Nazis: valuing the lives of those who appear highly intelligent and with lower support needs than the lives of other autistic people.
Division Within the Autism Community: It can create a divide between individuals who identify with "Asperger's" traits and other autistic individuals, undermining the unity of the neurodivergent community. Despite the traits of the former diagnosis of Asperger’s being quite literally described within the criteria for autism, some autistic individuals do not want to let go of the label. Often, this is due to subconscious internalized ableism and the still very present societal belief that Asperger’s is less “problematic” than autism. For some, the label of Asperger’s or “aspie” feels more palatable and more acceptable due to the historical connotations of this diagnosis being better. However, it is crucial for autistic people to work together in unity rather than perpetuate problematic stereotypes and prejudice within the community that ends up causing widespread harm.
Marginalization of Nonverbal Autistic Individuals: By valuing and glorifying traits like verbal communication, academic achievement, high IQ, and more, aspie supremacy marginalizes individuals with other equally valid experiences of autism, such as those who are nonverbal or have higher support needs. Even individuals with low support needs who may not have been previously diagnosed with Asperger’s are negatively impacted by “aspie supremacy” because it perpetuates the idea that any kind of disability related to the autistic experience is inherently inferior to the “aspie” experience. It equates disability or any kind of struggle related to being autistic within our society with being worse, wrong, or bad.

Combatting this mentality involves adopting neuroaffirming language and practices that celebrate and understand the full range of autistic experiences.

What Is the "Aspie Quiz"?

The "aspie quiz" is an online self-assessment tool designed to identify traits associated with autism, particularly the traits formerly aligned with Asperger’s. Created by independent developers, the aspie quiz includes questions about sensory experiences, communication styles, and special interests. While not a diagnostic tool, it is popular among individuals curious about their neurodivergence.

Sample "Aspie Quiz" Questions

Here is an example of what an "aspie quiz" might ask:

Sensory Experiences: Do you feel overwhelmed by bright lights, loud sounds, or strong smells?
Social Preferences: Do you prefer meaningful one-on-one conversations over large group settings?
Interests: Do you have a deep fascination with specific topics and enjoy learning about them extensively?
Routine and Predictability: Do you find comfort in routines and feel distressed when they are disrupted?
Nonverbal Communication: Do you find it challenging to interpret facial expressions or tone of voice?

These questions reflect traits commonly associated with autism. Notice how the traits discussed in this “aspie quiz” are no different than traits associated with the broader autism spectrum. Thus, it’s important to remember that while the “aspie quiz” can be useful for individuals trying to understand themselves better, it does not mean that Asperger’s Syndrome is still used or diagnosed today.

The Spectrum of Autism: Beyond Quizzes

The aspie quiz, while informative, offers a limited view of autism. Autism is a broad and varied neurotype, encompassing individuals with a range of traits and needs. A self-assessment (see our page am i autistic?)-- can be a helpful starting point, but understanding oneself as neurodivergent often requires deeper exploration, including reflection on lived experiences and, if desired, consultation with professionals such as psychologists, neuroaffirming therapists, or neurodivergence coaches.

The Role of Professional Evaluations

If the aspie quiz resonates, individuals may wish to explore a formal adult autism evaluation. While a professional diagnosis isn't required to embrace neurodivergence, it can offer practical benefits like workplace accommodations or access to resources. The process typically involves:

Interviews about social, sensory, and behavioral patterns.
(Optional) feedback from family or friends who can offer additional insights.
Standardized assessments tailored to neurodivergence.

Conclusion: Moving Beyond Labels

While the aspie quiz can spark curiosity and self-discovery, it’s essential to view it as a starting point rather than a definitive measure of neurodivergence. The term "aspie" reflects a historical understanding of autism that is connected to prejudice and oppression, and our knowledge has since expanded to encompass a more inclusive and affirming perspective. Understanding neurodivergence means celebrating differences, rejecting harmful hierarchies, and creating a society where all individuals can thrive. If you resonate with traits once labeled as "Asperger's,” it is beneficial to gain broader understandings of autism as a whole and identify with more accurate and less harmful labels.