[Travis McGee]

not mastering "small talk" is hardly a disorder

Yes it is, when you are neurologically incapable of ever mastering normal social discourse, and your mistakes lead to scorn, humiliation and rejection. For an adolescent who is desperate for friends, and to "fit in," this makes life a living hell.

[sarasota]

I think boys have a tougher time of it than girls and research supports this. My daughter was able to get by because she was perceived as "shy". She's not at all shy but people tended to look after her because of it, thank God. The school years are very painful for these kids. Be vigilant that your son doesn't become depressed before he graduates and can find his way around a better environment.

[FITZ]

Yes it is, when you are neurologically incapable of ever mastering normal social discourse, and your mistakes lead to scorn, humiliation and rejection.

That does sound like something different to me ---- that kind of problem --- a neurological incapability to accomplish social discourse would be serious and interfere with success. That I wouldn't argue with because that sounds like the classic definition of autism.