Asperger Syndrome

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Asperger Syndrome (AS) is not often discussed or heard about until someone you know is diagnosed with it.  Even more troubling is the fact that because many people are unaware of it, they don't know how to work and live with those affected by it.  The result is a small population of gifted children and adults who are often misunderstood, incorrectly labeled, and set aside a "will get to later" list.  The purpose of this page is to increase AS awareness and help those unaware of the syndrome know that those affected by it may, in fact, be the most gifted and special group of people they may ever meet.

To put AS into context, think about the movie Rainman starring Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman.  In the movie, Dustin Hoffman plays an autistic gentleman named Raymond Babbitt.  Some of the behaviors that best describe Raymond were his preoccupation with his own interests, his preference for schedules and routines, his clumsiness, and his exceptional ability in math.  Those diagnosed with AS have similar behaviors, but not necessarily to the same extreme. AS was first described in 1944 by Dr. Hans Asperger from Austria. His work; however, was overshadowed by the work of Dr. Leo Kanner who discovered Autism.  As autism became universally recognized, Dr. Asperger's work was disregarded in English speaking countries.  In 1981, Lorna Wing published a set of case studies that referred to behaviors identified by Dr. Asperger.  AS became officially recognized in 1994.

Definition:

Asperger Syndrome is best characterized as a mild variation of autism that falls under the spectrum of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD)*.  It affects two-way social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, reluctance to accept change, and inflexibility of thought.  Despite difficulties in these areas, individuals diagnosed with AS often possess and average to above average intelligence. *PPD:  Neurological disorders which may affect talking, playing with other children, and relating to others (including family members).  PPDs are characterized by severe and persistent impairment in areas like social interaction skills, communication skills, and/or the presence of stereotyped behavior, interests, and activities.   The five types of PPD include Autistic Disorder, Rhett's Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Asperger Disorder, and Pervasive Development Disorders not otherwise specified.

Signs and Symptoms:

Signs and symptoms of AS vary among those affected by AS.  Some of the characteristics associated with it are:

- Difficulty understanding irony and humor

- Uncoordinated motor movements

- Limited interest or unusual preoccupation

- Repetitive routines

- Preoccupation with their own interests

- Speech or language peculiarities

- Nonverbal communication problems

- Difficulty making friends

- Self absorbed

- A need   to finish tasks they have started

- Clumsiness

Research:

Because Dr. Asperger's work was not formally recognized until 1994, many valuable years of research were lost.  The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) continues to conduct research on a broad range of developmental disorders, including AS.  Their goal is to increase the understanding of the disease mechanisms associated with developmental disorders and to find ways to treat, prevent, and cure these disorders.

Treatment Options:

There is no specific course of treatment or cure for AS.  Treatments differ according to the varying degrees of diagnosis AS.  When developing a treatment plan it is important to remember that those diagnosed with AS are most comfortable with a structured environment and consistent routines.  Teaching social skills and developing proper educational interventions early will help kids, parents, and teachers live with the peculiarities of AS.  Continuous praise, love, tenderness, care, patience, and understanding are the ultimate keys to unlocking the "secrets" of AS and are the most common means to working with and caring for those diagnosed with AS.

Support Groups, Information and Links:

Online Asperger Syndrome Information & Support (OASIS)

Asperger Coalition of the United States

Visit Aspergia

National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Asperger Syndrome Information Page