Topic Overview
What is Asperger’s
syndrome?
Asperger’s syndrome is a developmental
disorder in which people have severe difficulties understanding how to interact
socially.
People with Asperger's syndrome have some traits of
autism, especially weak social skills and a preference
for sameness and routine. But unlike those with autism, children with
Asperger's syndrome usually start to talk before 2 years of age (when speech
normally starts to develop).
Both Asperger's syndrome and autism
belong to the group of disorders called
pervasive developmental disorders. As many as 3 out of
10,000 people have Asperger's syndrome.1
What causes Asperger’s syndrome?
The
exact cause of Asperger's syndrome is not known. It tends to run in families,
which suggests a genetic link, although scientists have not discovered a
distinct genetic marker.
What are the
symptoms?
Children with Asperger's syndrome typically
develop a good to excellent vocabulary, but they usually lack the social
instincts and practical skills needed for relating to others. This can result
in poor communication skills. They may not recognize verbal and nonverbal cues
or understand social norms, such as taking turns talking or grasping the
concept of personal space. They may have difficulties with accent, tone, and
pitch, which can make their speech sometimes odd or difficult to understand.
And they may have a hard time expressing their own feelings and perceiving
others' feelings. Children with Asperger's typically try to form friendships,
but they may have difficulty making friends because of their social
awkwardness.
Children with Asperger's syndrome often have limited
and very focused interests. They are often most comfortable with fixed
routines, and they do not like change. They may lack coordination, exhibit
unusual facial expressions, body postures, and gestures, and be somewhat
clumsy. Many children with Asperger's syndrome also have trouble with fine
motor skills, such as handwriting. They may also have trouble with gross motor
skills, such as riding a bike.
Children with Asperger's syndrome
will have some of the traits typical of the syndrome. But each child with
Asperger's presents a different picture. Some will have less pronounced traits,
and others' traits are more noticeable. Each child will have individual
interests, likes, and dislikes. All children with Asperger's syndrome have
severe trouble in social situations.
How is
Asperger’s syndrome diagnosed?
Asperger's syndrome is
usually not diagnosed until a child is at least 3 years old, when social
problems become apparent, although it may be diagnosed earlier. A diagnosis is
based on a careful history of the child’s development, psychological and
psychiatric assessments, communication tests, and the parents’ and clinicians’
shared observations.
Asperger's syndrome is diagnosed using
specific criteria, published in the Diagnostic and Statistical
Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR).
How
is it treated?
Treatment for Asperger's syndrome should be
tailored to meet individual needs. Communication and social skills training is
usually recommended. Behavior management, in which good behavior is rewarded,
can help change problem behaviors such as interrupting and dominating
conversations.
Medicines for Asperger's syndrome are generally
avoided, especially in young children, but may be recommended for specific
symptoms, such as
depression. Medicine for depression may be recommended
for adolescents with Asperger's syndrome.
Federal law requires
public schools to provide appropriate educational services for people with
Asperger's between the ages of 3 and 21. Contact your local school district to
find out which services are available for your child.
How
are families affected?
Parents of children with Asperger's
syndrome face many challenges in raising children with special needs. They may
have difficulty finding doctors who are knowledgeable about this uncommon
condition. Additionally, overtaxed teachers may not be able to offer the kind
of help parents know that their children need at school. They may view the
child’s symptoms as simply bad behavior.
Many children with
Asperger's syndrome have other coexisting conditions, such as
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),
anxiety disorder,
obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD),
social anxiety disorder, or
depression. These conditions also complicate a
parent's job. Many parents find comfort and build acceptance with help from
support groups, counseling, and a network of friends, family, and community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about Asperger's
syndrome: | |
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