By: Stephanie Cervi, Patrick Moloney, Jordan Nease, Marie Payne & Elizabeth Romary

This is a complex disorder of brain development. It is usually characterized by social-interaction difficulties, communication challenges and a tendency to engage in repetitive behaviors. There is no medical test that can accurately diagnose the disorder. It is normally first noticed by parents whose children exhibit unusual behaviors. They can then ask their child a series of questions called (M-CHAT) to determine whether or not they need to be further evaluated by a specialist.

There are so absolute causes of either Autism or Asperger’s. There is some speculation that Autism could be related to genetics, infections, or birth problems. There are nine males for every one female with Asperger’s. Scientists speculate that this might be related to fetal testosterone levels.

Usual treatment for both disorders is similar, although Autism requires more treatment then Asperger’s because it is usually more severe. Treatment can include: Special education, behavior modification, and speech, physical or occupational therapy.

Children with Autism tend to have a language delay or start speaking later in life. They also tend to have below average IQs. Children with Asperger’s usually do not have language delays, and tend to have normal to above average IQs.

Children with Asperger’s do not generally have speech delays; whereas some people with Autism do not speak until they are a few years old. Children with Asperger’s generally do not have trouble speaking. They do, however, use language in a different way. Their voice may lack inflection, tone or rhythm when speaking.

Children with Autism are usually aloof and do not care for social interaction. Children with Asperger’s usually try to fit in, but do not know how. They are more socially awkward than children with Autism, who usually choose to not interact at all. Asperger’s children lack empathy in a conversation and do not understand the use of gestures while talking.

Children with Autism usually have an interest in one particular subject that borders on obsessive. Children with Asperger’s like to keep collections of things, such as rocks and buttons. They also know categories of information, but do not understand abstract concepts.

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