Symptoms of Asperger's Syndrome

Asperger's syndrome is named after Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger who described this condition in 1944. During his practice, he identified it in children who lacked nonverbal communication skills, demonstrated limited empathy with their peers, and were physically clumsy.

Asperger's syndrome (AS) is an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which comprises of a group of neurological conditions characterized by degrees of impairment in language and communication skills, as well as repetitive or restrictive patterns of thought and behavior. Conditions such as classic autism, Rett syndrome, childhood dis-integrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, fall under the umbrella of ASD.

The symptoms of Asperger's syndrome are behavioral. They could include:

1. A child’s obsessive interest in a single topic is the most identifiable symptom of AS. While it is normal for children to be very interested in a certain subject, eg. dinosaurs or UFOs, children with AS will have little or no interest any other subject. They want to know everything about their topic of interest and all their conversations with other people will be pertaining to that subject only. Also, they have narrow areas of interest such as obsession with train schedules, phone books, or collections of objects.
2. Social interaction is a challenge for children with AS. Their efforts to interact are often fraught with inappropriate or eccentric behavior. People with Asperger's syndrome often desire to develop social contacts but find mixing with others very hard. This is because they:
   • Do not comprehend non-verbal signals such as body language, gestures, facial expressions and tone of voice.
   • Engage in one-sided, long-winded conversations about their subject of interest. They often fail to notice if the listener is listening or trying to change the subject.
   • Another problem they face is taking comments literally. They do not understand jokes, metaphors, colloquialisms or sarcastic speech, and take things at face value.
   
   
3. Children with AS usually have a history of developmental delays in motor skills such as pedaling a bike, catching a ball, or climbing outdoor play equipment. They are often awkward and poorly coordinated and walk in a stilted or bouncy manner.
4. They usually have a high level of vocabulary and a formal speech pattern. They may appear over-precise in what they say.
5. Children with AS display repetitive routines or rituals. They detest changes in routines, and will not give in easily to them.
6. Children with AS often exhibit sensitivity to sensory information, such as light, sound, texture, and taste.
7. They usually have above average intelligence, and can be particularly good at learning facts and figures. However, they may also lack imagination and find creative play or thinking in the abstract very difficult. Therefore, they may master topics such as maths or history, but struggle with subjects such as philosophy, religious education or creative arts.

If your elementary schoolchild has frequent problems in school or seems unable to make friends, you should consult your pediatrician. While these difficulties have many possible causes, developmental disorders such as AS need to be considered.

With early treatment intervention, children with AS can learn to cope with their disabilities. Treatment for Asperger's syndrome can include educational and social skills training. In some cases, behavioral therapy and medication may also be used. With encouragement and moral support, many adults with AS are able to work successfully in mainstream jobs and lead full, happy lives.