Aspergers By: Daniel A. Cabandie

What is Asperger’s syndrome? Asperger syndrome (AS) is a neurobiological disorder that is part of a group of conditions called autism spectrum disorders. Asperger’s syndrome is a lifelong condition, but symptoms tend to improve over time. The disorder is named after Hans Asperger, a Viennese pediatrician who, in 1940, first described a set of behavior patterns apparent in some of his patients, mostly males.

What causes Asperger syndrome? The research studies have clearly shown that AS is a developmental disorder due to a dysfunction of specific structures and systems of the brain. These structures may not have fully developed due to chromosomal abnormalities or may have been damaged during pregnancy, birth or the first few months of life.

About Asperger syndrome You cannot tell that someone has Asperger syndrome by looking at them. Sometimes Asperger syndrome is called a hidden disability. Children with Asperger's syndrome typically exhibit social awkwardness and an all-absorbing interest in specific topics. Boys are far more likely to develop Asperger's syndrome than are girls.

Symptoms Not pick up on social cues and may lack inborn social skills lack of eye contact, few facial expressions, or awkward body postures and gestures Showing an intense obsession with one or two specific, narrow subjects, such as baseball statistics, train schedules, weather or snakes Moving clumsily, with poor coordination, handwriting is often poor. Dislike any changes in routines. Be unable to recognize subtle differences in speech tone, pitch, and accent. Have heightened sensitivity and become over stimulated by loud noises, lights, or strong tastes or textures.

Diagnosis A diagnosis is best made with input from parents, doctors, teachers, and other caregivers who know or who have observed the child. Syndrome is diagnosed when specific criteria are met. These include: Poor social interaction, Unusual behavior, interests, and activities, no delay in language development, no delay in self-help skills and curiosity about the environment.

How is it treated? Treatment is based on the child’s unique symptoms. It may change often so that it’s most useful for the child. Many children with Asperger's syndrome also have other conditions, such as ADHD or obsessive – complusive disorder. So they may need other treatments, such as medicine.

How can you help your child succeed?...Strategies You can help build your child’s confidence and skills. Use rules and daily routines, visual aids, and role-playing. The child with Asperger's will need to be directly taught various social skills (recognition, comprehension and application) in one- to-one and/or small group settings. The use of social stories, and social scripts can provide the child with visual information and strategies that will improve his understanding of various social situations. Repeating instructions and checking understanding Addressing the pupil individually at all times Using clear and unambiguous language

Further Reading Further ReadingAttwood A. (1998) Asperger's Syndrome : A Guide for Parents and Professionals, London, Kingsley Publishers. Frith U. (Editor) (1994) Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Cambridge University Press. Gross J. (1994) Asperger Syndrome, Educational Psychology in Practice 10(2), 104- 110 Howlin P. (1998) Practitioner Review: Psychological & Educational Treatments for Autism, Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry 39(3), 307-322 Osmond A. (1996) Broken Lines, Special Children (October) Smith P. and Walker R. (1996) Failing to Connect, Special Children (October) Wing L. (1996) The Autistic Spectrum : A Guide for Parents and Professionals, London, Constable.