Common Symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome

Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) is one of the most popular Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) – A developmental disability and neurological condition characterized by lack of basic skills i.e. to socialize, communicate even impairment in language. Many also refer to it as “high functioning autism.”

Asperger’s Syndrome, a disorder affecting two out of every 10,000 children was named after Hans Asperger, an Austrian physician, who first identified the disorder in 1944. However, it was much later that the American Psychological Association recognized it as a pervasive developmental disorder.

Syndrome includes:

Communication difficulties.

People with Asperger’s Syndrome often exhibit difficulties in communicating, such as in the areas of requesting, discussing opinions, expressing feelings and emotions. They also have problems using non-verbal communication, such as using facial expressions while talking.

Problem regulating speech.

Children with Asperger’s Syndrome are often unable to regulate the volume of their voice to match their  surroundings as a result of speech marked by a lack of rhythm. At times, they will have to be cautioned to talk softly every time they enter a serene place.

Eccentric behaviors.

Asperger’s Syndrome makes children show repetitive movements, such as hand wringing or finger twisting.

Developmental delays in motor skills.

Children with Asperger’s Syndrome usually have a history of developmental delays in some motor skills like: pedaling a bike or catching a ball.

Limit range of Interests.

One with Asperger’s Syndrome may gather enormous interest that become obsession in certain areas of life until he becomes expert in it. But, only want his singular interest be discussed.

Problems with Social skills.

People with Asperger’s Syndrome generally have problem interacting with others – They do not make friends and always have difficulty initiating and maintaining conversation.

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References

Digby Tantam: Psychological Disorder in Adolescents and Adults with Asperger Syndrome. Autism. March 2000 vol. 4 no. 1 47-62

Emotional Intelligence and Resiliency in Young Adults With Asperger's Disorder: Challenges and Opportunities. Canadian Journal of School Psychology June 1, 2008 23: 70-93

Understanding Asperger’s Syndrome/Disorder – Parent Guide. Child Development Institute, LLC.

Autism Spectrum Disorders Health Center. WebMD

Asperger Syndrome Fact Sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke