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About
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Asperger's Syndrome
Asperger's
Syndrome is a developmental disorder that affects how the brain processes
information. It shapes a child's
social, emotional and communication skills, and behaviors. Children
and adults with Asperger’s Syndrome have an intellectual
capacity within the normal range, but have distinct disabilities
along with
a wide range of behaviors and social skills. Asperger syndrome
usually becomes apparent during childhood and remains throughout
life. There
is no cure. However, a combination of support, regular routine,
training and sometimes medication may assist the parents and child.
History
of Asperger's Syndrome
Asperger's syndrome became a recognized developmental disorder
in 1994. Prior to that, a person with Asperger syndrome was considered
to be socially awkward or unsociable. Some people were misdiagnosed
as having a psychiatric disorder or labeled obsessive compulsive
or simply thought of as 'odd'. Asperger's is one of the five
'autism spectrum disorders'.
Children
with Asperger's Syndrome
Many of the behaviors of individuals with Asperger syndrome are 'normal'
for young children if they happen some of the time, however, if
they happen most of the time they may indicate Asperger syndrome.
The pattern of difficulties can be quite different for each person.
Asperger syndrome individuals will have many behaviors that are
similar to those with autism, but they have better language and
average to above average cognitive skills.
| Some
Characteristics of Asperger's
Syndrome |
People
with Asperger syndrome may display some of the following
characteristics:
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Difficulty
in forming friendships. |
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A
preference for being alone or with older children and
adults. |
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Ability
to talk well, either too much or too little, but difficulty
with communication. |
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Inability
to understand the rules of social behavior, the feelings
of others and 'body language'. |
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Having
rules and rituals that they insist all family members
follow. |
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Anger
and aggression when things do not happen as they want. |
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Sensitivity
to criticism. |
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A
narrow field of interests and intense preoccupation with
areas of interest. |
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Difficulty
taking the perspective of another or understanding cause
and effect relationships. |
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Difficulty
understanding abstractions, problem solving, and the
use of figurative language. |
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