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If your child has been recently diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, then you probably have more questions than answers about this little-known diagnosis.
This article presents the answers to some common questions from parents about Asperger Syndrome.
What is the syndrome Asperger?
Asperger Syndrome, the name of Hans Asperger, an Austrian physician, is a milder form of autism. Both conditions are part of a group of neurological disorders known in the U.S. as pervasive developmental disorders or PDD for short. The 2 most common symptoms are the eccentric behavior and self-imposed social isolation. Sometimes speech is affected, as well as walking and motor skills. Your child may also be exclusively focused on an area particular interest, such as cars or astronomy. Social isolation comes from the child who wants to know everything about your area of interest and little else. Conversations are generally focused only on that area.
What causes Asperger syndrome?
Experts believe that Asperger syndrome and autism have underlying biological causes, but are unclear what these causes. They do know that there are certain abnormalities in brain structure, but do not know why they occur.
How is Asperger's syndrome and autism different?
Asperger's usually begins later in childhood and has more hopeful prognosis. The child tends to operate at a higher level with Asperger syndrome as well. Asperger children tend to be clumsy, but in general have fewer neurological deficits that autistic children.
How does the doctor to make sure my child has Asperger's syndrome?
The diagnosis of most mental / emotional disorder tends to be one of ruling out other conditions and taking into account certain behavioral patterns. There is no evidence Final Asperger's syndrome, but there are certain standards, including:
- A significant impairment in social interaction, as demonstrated by: – Disturbance of nonverbal communication – Failure to develop peer relationships appropriate age – lack of shared enjoyment of activities and surroundings with others – not be the social and / or emotionally
- Repeated patterns of behavior or interest, such as: – the intensity abnormal interest in one or two specific areas – rigid rituals that serve no functional purpose – repetitive gestures such as hand or fingers – persistently concerned with parts of objects
- Significant deterioration in the areas of individual development (social, employment and other areas)
- No significant delay in language
- No significant delay in cognitive development and learning of the age of self-care skills
If your child meets one or more of the above criteria, your doctor may suspect Asperger's.
My son is crazy or insane?
Asperger Syndrome in itself is not a mental illness, is a developmental disorder. However, it is quite commonly associated with the following conditions:
- Deficit Attention Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Opposition Defiant Disorder (ODD)
- Depression
- Bipolar Disorder
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
How is Asperger syndrome?
No treatment Asperger's syndrome that will "disappear". However, using a combination of approaches that address the three core symptoms of the disorder (poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines and physical clumsiness), can help your child lead a fairly normal life. It is also important to start treatment as soon as possible. Treatment approaches recommended by your doctor may include:
- Psychotherapy
- Parent education and training
- Behavior modification
- Social skills training
- Education interventions
- Medications, as stimulants, mood stabilizers, antidepressants and SSRIs
Is there a cure for Asperger syndrome?
Unfortunately there is no cure for this disease, and children do not "grow out" of it either. Chances are your child are always social and personal situations relations to be a challenge. However, many adults with Asperger syndrome are able to live healthy and productive lives, even if they may need support to do so.
What do I need to do as a parent of a child with Asperger Syndrome?
The most important thing you can do is put your child in a treatment regimen early and stick with it, even during difficult times. It is worthwhile in the long run if measures are taken to support your child's progress and help you adjust and adapt. You can serve as a case manager or coordinator, and seek to involve all your child's caregivers in the treatment as much as possible. You should teach your child self-help skills as he / she grows and develops. Watch for the treatment and educational programs that address problem areas of your child. Get support for yourself too. You will not be at your best with your child if you are exhausted and frustrated.
Hopefully these answers have addressed some of your most pressing questions. For more information, finding information on the Web at reputable sites or find a book at your local bookstore. Also, never talk to your pediatrician and be afraid keep asking questions until you get answers you can understand.
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