A Comprehensive Guide to Asperger’s Syndrome

Autism refers to disorder that affect how people communicate, interpret language and socialize. Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) is defined as a mild kind of autism. Previously, it was regarded as a separate condition, but now children who have AS are considered to be on the ‘autism spectrum’. This term refers to a plethora of developmental disabilities that can manifest themselves in different combinations and in varying degrees of severity. Children who suffer from Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) fall under the high functioning end of the spectrum.

Characteristics of Asperger’s Syndrome

Obsessions, poor social interactions, few facial expressions, odd speech patterns and other peculiar mannerisms characterize Asperger’s Syndrome. Children suffering from AS will find it difficult to read the body language of others, be unusually sensitive to sensory stimuli, exhibit obsessive behaviors. For instance, they may want to wear clothes of a specific material, cover their ears to block out a sound or be bothered by a light no one else notices.

As a whole, children with AS are able to function like normal people, but tend to relate better with adults as compared to their peers, may be socially immature or may be viewed as eccentric or odd. Clumsiness, motor delays, peculiar preoccupations and limited interests are some other characteristics. As far as adults are concerned, those suffering from AS will continue to find social interactions difficult and may be unable to show empathy for others.

According to experts, Asperger’s Syndrome usually follows a continuous course, which means it will last for a lifetime. However, some symptoms tend to decrease or increase over time and early intervention can be helpful here.

Signs and Symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome

The symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome are similar to that of other behavioral issues due to which it is best to le a professional evaluate the signs exhibited by a child. A number of kids are first diagnosed with ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) before an AS diagnosis. Some common signs and symptoms that kids with AS will demonstrate include:

• Problems with writing skills, reading or math
• Minimal or inappropriate social interactions
• Odd mannerisms or behaviors
• Awkward movements
• Obsessions with complex subjects such as music or patterns
• Conversations that usually revolve around self instead of others
• Robotic, scripted or repetitive speech
• Average or even below-average nonverbal cognitive abilities, even though verbal cognitive abilities are usually above average

It is also essential to understand that unlike autism, children suffering from Asperger’s Syndrome may not show any delays in language development; they usually have an advanced vocabulary or good grammar skills from an early age. Likewise, there may be no delays in cognitive development either. However, children suffering from AS may have problems with organization and attention spans or possess skills that lack in some areas and are well-developed in others.

Diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome

It can be very difficult to diagnose Asperger’s Syndrome because children suffering from AS will function quite normally and even better than others in most aspects. Therefore, most people often make the mistake of considering their odd behaviors as something ‘different’ and not as serious issues. Early intervention that involves social and educational training, which is done while their brain is still developing, can be immensely helpful for children.

If you think that your child is exhibiting any signs or symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome, you can take the Aspie quiz for children online. Once you have some confirmation, you can consult a doctor and ask them to recommend you to a specialist for a formal diagnosis. They will perform a ‘psychosocial’ evaluation and assessment and provide appropriate education, resources and support to ensure such children can live full and healthy lives.

Image Source: Webmd.com