They are three celebrities who have thrived in the limelight despite a diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome. While there is much discussion about the autism spectrum as a whole, an Asperger’s syndrome diagnosis can sometimes slip through the cracks.
Asperger’s syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and a pervasive developmental disorder (PDD). PDD is a term used to describe a host of conditions that involve the delayed development of certain basic skills. Socialization, communication and imagination are three key developmental areas that Asperger’s syndrome typically affects.
Does My Child Have Autism?
While autism is a frightening term for many parents to hear, Asperger’s syndrome is only on the autism spectrum and does differ from autism. For example, children with Asperger’s syndrome typically function at a higher level than those diagnosed with other types of autism. Individuals affected by Asperger’s syndrome are expected to exhibit normal intelligence levels and mainly age-appropriate language skills. In fact, some of history’s greatest minds supposedly suffered from Asperger’s, including Albert Einstein, Thomas Jefferson, Michelangelo, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Lewis Carroll.
Asperger’s Syndrome Symptoms
If you believe a loved one may suffer from Asperger’s syndrome, it is important to get educated. Some of the following symptoms could signal a possible Asperger’s syndrome diagnosis and may warrant testing to determine if that’s the case. Keep in mind that the extent or severity of these types of symptoms can vary widely for many patients.
- Communication challenges: One common sign of Asperger’s syndrome is the inability to use appropriate facial expressions and body language when speaking with others. People with Asperger’s syndrome also may misinterpret others’ body language. Eye contact may be challenging for a person who has Asperger’s. Speech may seem awkward, stilted or monotone.
- Repetitive or unusual habits and behaviors: Uncontrollable finger twisting or wringing of the hands are two examples of repetitive actions commonly seen in Asperger’s patients. Odd habits of this nature may be a sign that your child should be evaluated by a doctor who is knowledgeable about PDDs.
- Coordination issues: If your child is exceptionally clumsy or awkward, this could be a sign of Asperger’s syndrome. If this symptom is accompanied by any others listed in this article, consider speaking with your healthcare provider to determine whether further testing is necessary.
- Stunted social skills: Asperger’s syndrome may affect a child’s ability to function properly in social situations. Awkwardness and lack of ability to participate fully in conversation may affect the child’s ability to make and keep friends.
- A narrow range of interests: Children suffering from Asperger’s syndrome may fixate on one or two areas of interest and talk incessantly about them. The child might memorize large quantities of statistics about one particular sport and be unable to participate in conversations that deviate from this area of expertise. This type of behavior further affects the ability to socialize and will cause an isolated feeling in the child that may become obvious to adults observing the child in social settings.
- Anxiety or depression: These are symptoms that typically manifest in early adulthood but also may be signs of Asperger’s syndrome.
Diagnosing Asperger’s Syndrome
Unfortunately, the diagnostic process is not simple for Asperger’s syndrome. If you suspect that your child is displaying symptoms of Asperger’s syndrome, you may need to have your primary doctor do an initial screening of your child prior to seeking a specialist's input. There is some inconsistency of a standardized approach to diagnosing this condition, and symptoms can vary. Your primary doctor may be able to help determine the best course of action for your family to seek a proper diagnosis.
Once your doctor has determined that additional testing is required, you may work with a team of specialists that includes neurologists, psychologists, speech specialists or additional specialists as needed. The team typically will conduct a battery of tests and evaluations that include genetic assessments, neurological functioning, speech and language testing, and learning and social skills testing.
Once the team reviews all results, a diagnosis is made. If your child is diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, the team of experts will create an appropriate care plan.
Treatment Options for Asperger’s Syndrome
While there is no actual cure for Asperger’s syndrome, there are some effective therapies and interventions that can be used to help the child manage symptoms and live a full and happy life. All Asperger’s syndrome patients are unique, so treatment plans also vary widely, but typical elements of treatment include the following.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: This is a treatment designed to help affected children deal with their emotions and manage their repetitive or obsessive habits. The treatment involves talking sessions and often targets aggressive or anxious emotional symptoms.
- Social skills therapy: This is a group treatment program that helps children with Asperger’s syndrome learn and practice how to socialize with others.
- Medication: If there is a need for medication for associated symptoms such as depression, the child’s treatment plan will include the appropriate prescriptions.
- Speech therapy: The speech therapist on the child’s medical team will work with the child to develop speech and language skills.
- Parent education: By teaching parents how to reinforce therapies at home and providing ongoing support, the medical team empowers the family to manage the child’s condition.