Asperger's often comes with social phobia almost built-in thanks to the hostile environment many of these kids grow up in. When you get kicked down every time you speak up, you are bound to get shy, anxious, even avoidant...

Many people seem to think that you have got to be shy to have AS; the truth is that you just need to be socially clumsy (well, not just that--you need to have some other traits too, like atypical communication, obsessions, repetitive behavior, etc.). There are a surprising number of outgoing people with AS and autism, many of who have learned to take it in stride when they stick their feet in their mouths. There are some others who are stable introverts, preferring to be alone but not anxious in the company of people.

Suggestion: Asperger's and social phobia need not be inextricably linked. Asperger's is life-long; but social phobia is a problem that can be resolved, and as it causes a great deal of distress, it should be.