Asperger's syndrome
- Article
- 2021-03-02
Asperger's syndrome (AS) is a developmental disorder. It is an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), one of a distinct group of neurological disorders characterized by a greater or lesser degree of deterioration in language and communication skills, as well as repetitive or restrictive thinking and behavioral patterns. Other ASD include: classic autism, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegration disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (commonly referred to as PDD-NOS). Unlike children with autism, children with AS maintain their early language skills.
The most distinctive symptom of AS is a child's obsessive interest in a single object or subject, to the exclusion of any other. Children with AS want to know everything about their area of interest and there will be little else in their conversations with others. Their expertise, high vocabulary and formal speech patterns make them look like little professors. Other characteristics of AS include repetitive routines or rituals; peculiarities in speech and language; socially and emotionally inappropriate behavior and inability to interact successfully with peers; problems with non-verbal communication; and clumsy and uncoordinated motor movements.
Children with AS are isolated because of their poor social skills and limited interests. They may approach other people but make normal conversation impossible through inappropriate or eccentric behavior, or by only wanting to talk about their special interest. Children with AS usually have a history of developmental delay in motor skills, such as cycling, catching a ball, or climbing on outdoor play equipment. They are often clumsy and poorly coordinated with a walk that can seem both stilted and bouncy.
Therapy
The ideal treatment for AS is coordinating therapies that address the three core symptoms of the disorder: poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness. There is not the best treatment package for all children with AS, but most professionals agree that the sooner the intervention, the better.
An effective treatment program builds on the interests of the child, provides a predictable schedule, teaches tasks as a series of simple steps, actively engages the child's attention in highly structured activities, and provides regular reinforcement of behavior. It may include social skills training, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication for coexisting conditions, and other measures.
Prognosis
With effective treatment, children with AS can learn to cope with their disabilities, but they can still find social situations and personal relationships difficult. Many adults with AS are able to work successfully in mainstream jobs, although they may continue to need encouragement and moral support to lead independent lives.
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