What Is Savant Syndrome?

Relation To Other Conditions

In general, savant syndrome does have a relation to other conditions. In many instances, it can be associated with forms of mental retardation, meaning the individual displaying the talent has a measured IQ of less than 70. However, it is not a requirement to have a low IQ to be considered a savant.

Most cases of savant syndrome are associated with individuals who have received a formal diagnosis of autism or Asperger’s syndrome. Individuals with autism typically display a delay in speech and language development and expression as children. They may have a severe incapacity to use or interpret language, understand non-verbal gestures, and interact fully in a conversation. Those with Asperger’s syndrome do not demonstrate a language delay during childhood. They may have slight delays in social interaction and abstract thinking, but the degree of symptoms is far less in comparison to autism.