Asperger's Symptoms in Toddlers

Have you ever heard of Asperger's syndrome? In medical terminology, a few developmental disorders or disabilities that affect young children are grouped under autism spectrum disorders, Asperger's syndrome happens to be one of them. Asperger's syndrome, also known as pervasive developmental disorder, figures on the high functioning end of autism spectrum. This condition is named after an Austrian pediatrician, Hans Asperger. He first came up with the term, 'autistic psychopathy' to describe this condition. Asperger's syndrome in toddlers manifests in the form of an inability to interact in various social situations. Wondering what causes Asperger's syndrome? How can this condition be diagnosed? Well, a knowledge of Asperger's symptoms in toddlers can greatly help parents and teachers identify that a child is suffering from this developmental disorder. Let's find out more about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of Asperger's syndrome in children.

Causes of Asperger's Syndrome

Before I tell you about Asperger's symptoms in toddlers, let's find out what causes this pervasive developmental disorder. There is a lack of evidence and clarity regarding the causes of Asperger syndrome. It is believed that this condition runs in families. A family history of depression or bipolar disorder is also believed to be a risk factor. It is believed that abnormal functioning of the brain due to a damage to the tissues of the brain before or during childbirth or structural brain abnormalities could also be responsible for causing Asperger's syndrome. A link between childhood trauma or parenting issues and Asperger's syndrome has not been established as yet. Well, whatever be the cause, this condition can affect a child's behavioral patterns and cause impairment of social skills considerably. Wondering about the common Asperger's symptoms in children? Here's some information on Asperger's symptoms in toddlers.

Symptoms of Asperger's Syndrome

As I mentioned earlier, Asperger's symptoms in toddlers include abnormal behavioral patterns and impaired social interactions. Children suffering from this condition often find it hard to strike a conversation. Avoiding eye contact during conversations is one of the common symptoms of Asperger's syndrome. They cannot understand body language of those around them. Whether the other person is responding or reciprocating to them or not, doesn't bother them, this is why they often engage in one-sided conversations. One of the common symptoms of Asperger's in children is they take figures of speech quite literally. That explains their inability to understand sarcasm or humor.

Obsessing on a few subjects or activities is one of the common signs of Asperger's in children. They spend a lot of time on their specialized hobbies and might extensively make their interests the subject of their conversations. Due to their impaired social skills or inability to show empathy, such children often fail to make friends with children of their age. They generally exhibit repetitive behavioral patterns. They like following a routine and often resent it when someone tries to change the routine. They are very inflexible when it comes to making changes. Some of their body movements might be repetitive. They might flap their hands or fingers. Their gait might be unusual. Many a time, such children come across as clumsy. Asperger's syndrome symptoms also include delayed motor skills and learning difficulties. Asperger's syndrome is also responsible for causing an increased sensitivity to loud noises, flashy lights, strong textures or colors.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Asperger's Syndrome

Now that you are aware of Asperger's symptoms in toddlers, you might be wondering about the treatment. If Asperger's syndrome in children is detected early, one can help such children cope better. Wondering how this condition is diagnosed? Well, Asperger's test or screening tools are generally in the form of questionnaires or IQ tests that are based on Asperger's checklist. The doctors refer to a psychiatric diagnostic manual called DSM IV for the diagnosis guidelines. Though parents can take an online Childhood Asperger's syndrome test, if a child is exhibiting such symptoms, one must consult a psychologist and a specialized pediatrician soon. Since such children might suffer from language problems, you might need to consult speech therapists as well. Generally doctors interview the parents and observe the child's behavioral pattern for diagnosing Asperger's in children. As far as the treatment is concerned, one needs to help them improve their social skills. That could be done through social training or therapy. Since such children generally have certain specialized interests, let them pursue their interest and help them excel in their area of interest.

This was a brief overview on Asperger's symptoms in toddlers. An awareness about the common Asperger's symptoms in children can surely help in the early diagnosis of this developmental disorder. If your child is exhibiting such behavior, consult a doctor immediately. An early diagnosis and treatment will surely help one cope with this disorder in a better way.