ASPERGER’S SYNDROME

Asperger syndrome (AS) is a neuro developmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. Asperger Syndrome is a neurobiological disorder characterized by abnormalities in social interaction and language acquisition. Asperger Syndrome is considered to be on the mild end of the spectrum. People with Asperger Syndrome exhibit three primary symptoms: Having difficulty with social interaction, engaging in repetitive behavior, standing firm on what they think and focusing on rules and routines. Often, individuals diagnosed with AS have normal or above normal intelligence. In addition, people with this condition are frequently able to be educated in mainstream classrooms and hold jobs. Early diagnosis and intervention can help a child make social connections, achieve their potential, and lead a productive life. Symptoms vary from person to person, but children with AS often have an obsessive focus on a narrow topic of interest. Many people with AS find it hard to recognize other people’s feelings. It’s common for people with this condition to avoid eye contact when speaking with other. Genetic factors and exposure to environmental toxins, such as chemicals or viruses, have been identified as potential contributors to the development of the disorder. Boys are more likely to develop AS than girls. There’s no single test that can tell you whether your child has AS. In many cases, parents report developmental or behavioral delays or difficulties.

A lack of demonstrated empathy affects aspects of communal living for persons with Asperger syndrome.Individuals with Asperger Syndrome  experience difficulties in basic elements of social interaction, which may include a failure to develop friendships or to seek shared enjoyments or achievements with others (for example, showing others objects of interest); a lack of social or emotional reciprocity (social “games” give-and-take mechanic); and impaired nonverbal behaviors in areas such as eye contact, facial expression, posture, and gesture.People with Asperger syndrome can display behavior, interests, and activities that are restricted and repetitive and are sometimes abnormally intense or focused. They may stick to inflexible routines, move in stereotyped and repetitive ways, preoccupy themselves with parts of objects, or engage in compulsive behaviors like lining objects up to form patterns.

The onset of Asperger syndrome commonly occurs after the age of 3. Some individuals who exhibit features of autism (a developmental brain disorder characterized by impaired social interaction and communication skills) but who have well-developed language skills may be diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. There is no specific course of treatment or cure for Asperger syndrome. Treatment, which is symptomatic and rehabilitation, may include speech therapy, occupational therapy and special education. Children with Asperger syndrome have a better outlook than those with other forms of pervasive developmental disorders and are much more likely to grow up to be independently functioning adults.