Asperger Disorder, also known as Asperger Syndrome, is a neurodevelopmental disorder within the autism spectrum characterized by difficulties in social interactions, communication, and restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior. Synonymous terms are often used to refer to this condition, including Asperger's, Asperger Autism, and High-Functioning Autism. These terms describe the same set of symptoms, but there has been a shift in terminology in recent years. Asperger Disorder was initially recognized as a separate diagnosis, but it is now considered to be on the spectrum of autism. Therefore, using the term "Asperger Disorder" is less common nowadays, with "Asperger Syndrome" or just "autism" preferred as the related synonyms.