Hmm... lots of good stuff here.
Initial analysis reveals the base argument to be true, that some personality traits may combine to produce some recognizable dysfuntion.
Quote:
Asperger's syndrome = autistic + anxious
This I feel very strongly is true about me. However I bet there are plenty of folks here who would disagree. Meaning, from what I've leaned about some other Aspies, some of us have very oppposite traits.
The use of the word "spectrum" should not be taken lightly. I feel ALL brain function is a continuum, how could it not be? There is infinite variety among us, and all our brains are different.
Using anchors as suggested may work, but now as I think more about this, I don't believe so. I think you may always find traits that are common to certain illnesses, but are not neccessary or sufficient in themselves.
When it comes to brain function I believe in tendencies, even within your own brain. After all it changes constantly. Labels are useful to help others understand, harmful when used negatively, but on the whole must exist. Man must quantify.
It is fascinating and I hope some others will have interesting things to say.