Asperger's Syndrome
Asperger’s syndrome is a developmental neurological disorder that primarily affects a child’s ability to communicate and socially interact effectively with others. Because of these shared communication problems, Asperger’s is often grouped together with Autism and other pervasive developmental disorders under the heading autistic spectrum disorders. Asperger’s is considered to be at the milder end of this spectrum.
Children with Asperger’s have difficulty reading social cues and the intentions of others. They might for example have a hard time reading humor in a conversation, show intense obsession with a narrow range of topics, or engage in one-sided conversations. Their speech may seem pressurized and flat and they may avoid or have infrequent eye contact. These unusual social behaviors sometimes invoke rejection by other children, which can lead to further withdrawal or acting out in anger or frustration. Tantrums are common reactions to feeling uncomfortable or anxious in social situations, during transitions, when given limits or in response to new situations. However, despite struggling socially, children with Aspergers, are very often verbally and intellectually gifted. They often have intense interests and an unusual command of facts on specific topics, but they also may have trouble organizing tasks, which can prevent them from succeeding in an unsupported standard school setting.
Children with Asperger’s are often physically uncoordinated due to visual-spatial and motor impairments and may move with a rigid or awkward gait. Stereotypic movements used for self-soothing or self-regulating such as pacing or rocking are common. Children with Asperger’s can also have sensory issues, becoming overwhelmed for example in reaction to: loud noises, heights, crowded rooms, tags on clothing, hats, wristwatches, and certain food textures..
Asperger’s, is often difficult to detect until secondary mental health issues such as depression and anxiety emerge, or when behavioral problems manifest in school or at home drawing attention to the child. However, there are many signs and symptoms ranging from obvious to subtle depending on an individual child's profile. The prognosis is optimal when treatment for the child and support for the family begins as early as possible – preferably in infancy when a child’s brain is most plastic.
Further Reading:
The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome, by Tony Attwood. Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's, by John Elder Robison. Crown Publishing Group
See also:
Autism