| Asperger’s Syndrome |
Asperger’s Syndrome
Asperger’s syndrome, which is also known as pervasive
development disorder, is an autism-spectrum disorder (i.e. similar
in some ways to autism) and is often referred to as
‘high-functioning autism’.
development disorder, is an autism-spectrum disorder (i.e. similar
in some ways to autism) and is often referred to as
‘high-functioning autism’.
Asperger’s syndrome becomes obvious during early childhood,
usually around the age of three years Despite this, the diagnosis
of Asperger’s Syndrome is often missed until the child reaches late
childhood.
usually around the age of three years Despite this, the diagnosis
of Asperger’s Syndrome is often missed until the child reaches late
childhood.
Asperger’s syndrome is more common in males than in females and
can vary enormously in the severity of disability it
causes.
can vary enormously in the severity of disability it
causes.
SYMPTOMS
- Inability to understand how to interact with other
people, - Clumsy and uncoordinated motor movements
- Extremely egocentric behavioural patterns
- Limited interests
- Unusual preoccupations
- Repetitive routines or rituals
- Abnormalities in speech and language
- Few facial expressions other than anger or misery
- Difficulty interpreting non-verbal communication (i.e. the body
language or facial expressions of other people) - Excellent rote memory and musical ability and may become
intensely interested in a limited range of topics, to the exclusion
of anything else - Talking obsessively about their favourite interests or
repeating a word or phrase many times. - Being ‘in a world of their own’ and very preoccupied with their
own agendas - Anxiety and an inability to cope with any form of criticism or
imperfection - Clumsiness
- An unusual gait or stance and a degree of
eccentricity - Children with Asperger’s Syndrome generally display a much
higher IQ than those with severe autism.
CAUSE
The cause of Asperger’s syndrome is not known, but it’s
thought that it may be genetically inherited.
thought that it may be genetically inherited.
TREATMENT
Always consult your doctor for the diagnosis and management of
this disorder. The management of Asperger’s syndrome is similar to
that of autism. This involves behavioural therapy that includes
both the child and their family and is tailored to suit the child’s
specific needs. These needs are determined by the severity of their
condition. Some options include:
this disorder. The management of Asperger’s syndrome is similar to
that of autism. This involves behavioural therapy that includes
both the child and their family and is tailored to suit the child’s
specific needs. These needs are determined by the severity of their
condition. Some options include:
- Psychotherapy
- Parental education and training
- Training in social skills
- Providing an appropriate educational environment.
- In some cases, certain aspects of Asperger’s syndrome such as
social behavioural problems and hyperactivity may improve with
certain medications - People with Asperger’s syndrome tend to be underweight, which
is thought to be caused by poor eating behaviours.. If this is the
case, there may be a need to consult a dietitian for advice on the
best way of ensuring adequate nutrition.
ORGANISATIONS & SUPPORT GROUPS
Asperger’s Syndrome Support Network
The Nerve Centre (Multiple Sclerosis Society of
Victoria)
Victoria)
54 Railway Road
Blackburn, VIC, 3130
(03) 9845 2766