The Autism Spectrum Disorder And Asperger's Syndrome

Autism spectrum disorder is defined by the DSM 5 as a group of developmental disabilities that can cause significant challenges in social situations, behavior, and communication. This means that individuals with ASDs handle information differently within their brain. There are many disorders within the Autism spectrum and affect individuals differently and at different ages. Asperger’s Syndrome was added to the DSM IV in 1994 before it became grouped under the Autism Spectrum Disorder along with all autism and pervasive developmental disorders in 2013. Asperger’s Syndrome is considered a high functioning autism within the spectrum and it usually affects individuals starting at a young age.

Asperger’s Syndrome is a developmental disorder related to autism that is categorized as high functioning in that individuals can typically are normal in developing language skills as well as intellectually. Asperser’s Syndrome was first described in the 1940’s by Viennese pediatrician Hans Asperger. (Buzzle.com)He observed difficulties in social and communication skills in boys with otherwise normal intelligence and language development. Asperger’s syndrome is commonly first noticed at a preschool age level and is consistent throughout life. Symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome vary from individual to individual and are often consistent with social issues.

During childhood Asperger’s Syndrome is seen when the child cannot pick up on social cues and lacks inborn social skills. These skills do not develop at a normal rate, if at all. These lacking social skills can include the inability to read body language, start or maintain a conversation, or take turns while speaking. Children with Asperger’s Syndrome also tend to rely heavily on daily routines ...

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...upational and physical therapists. Children who have symptoms evolving language and communication benefit most from a speech therapist to help them be able to hold a conversation. Most children with Asperger’s Syndrome also have a therapist to work with on developing social skills.

While there is no known definitive cause of Asperger’s Syndrome and no available cure, children with Asperger’s Syndrome can lead full lives. With supportive family, friends, and educators these children cannot only succeed they can thrive. As there are not exact medications for Asperger’s Syndrome there are many forms of treatment and many options to help manage symptoms. These children are not ill or sick, they are not different or weird, they simply have a different definition of normal. The best way to help these children and provide for a successful life for them is acceptance.