what is meant by "impairment" in a diagnosis?

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i understand that to be diagnosed with anything you have to be impaired in some way, but i don't know exactly what would constitute that. certain mental issues are associated with asperger's/autism, such as add, social anxiety, depression... so if one suffers from these things (such that it interferes with their daily life) AND shows traits of autism/asper, would that constitute impairment as it relates to diagnosis of ASD? or maybe these secondary aspects aren't part of the actual diagnosis of ASD?

Impairment would be things like not being able to make age appropriate friends, not being able to get a job, having routines interfere with normal functioning, etc. I wouldn't consider comorbids impairment of ASD alone.

Having friends who are way older or younger is an impairment? Why? That doesn't make sense.

I considered it more in an adult context. Someone not being able to make friends with colleagues can't network with people which is often necessary in a career. I would consider that an impairment and not being able to make friends to age expectations, which has more to do with your own age and not the age of your friends.

Using my own situation as an example of this - I'm currently hunting for work. My boyfriend is getting frustrated by my lack of success. However, he also says that the only way he's ever seen anybody get a job is through people they know. I literally know nobody. I'm trying to apply for a particular job I think I'd be well suited for, but they require 2 references from former coworkers - which wasn't a problem - and one - ONE!! !! ! - personal reference (non-relative). I've been thinking for a week, and don't know anyone besides him I could even ask - and I've lived here for 7 or 8 years. And no, he is NOT WILLING to be my reference, because he's convinced my oddities would cause me to perform poorly, and he won't risk his reputation on that (which I understand, given that he has spent a great deal of time and effort building his reputation). Damn, that's pitiful when I actually put it down and read it.

I would have to think that counts as an impairment.

And I'll stop typing now, before this post turns into something more suitable for the Haven than "General Discussion"!