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ASPERGER Syndrome is one of many forms of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
These are the signs somebody you know may have Asperger’s, as well as some of the famous individuals who live with the condition. Here’s the lowdown…
What are the signs of Asperger Syndrome?
Asperger Syndrome is a lifelong developmental disability which affects how people see the world and interact with others.
It’s often referred to as ‘mild autism’ – and affects around 700,000 people in the UK (more than one in 100).
The main difference between it and autism is that people with Asperger’s do not have a learning disability, and do not have any developmental or intellectual delays.
In fact, those with Asperger’s are normally of average or above average intelligence.
Most kids with Asperger’s go to mainstream schools, but a diagnosis is important so their learning can be targeted properly.
Common signs of Asperger Syndrome in children include avoiding eye contact, and preferring to play alone or with adults – instead of joining in with other kids.
Those with Asperger’s often find it hard to interpret changes in facial expressions, tone of voice, jokes, sarcasm and vagueness.
They tend to have very mature language skills, and will use sophisticated words they have learned from books, but can still find it hard to communicate with others.
Kids may also find it difficult to read other people, meaning they may appear to be insensitive, act ‘strangely’ or fail to comfort someone who’s upset.
They typically don’t like change and like to stick to a routine.
People with Asperger’s often have one very intense interest – such as art, music or computer programming.
While some may have over or under-sensitivity to sounds, touch, tastes, smells, light, colours, temperatures or pain.
Asperger’s is named after an Austrian paediatrician who produced the first clear definition of the syndrome back in 1944.
Hans Asperger identified similarities in the behaviour of four boys which he described as “autistic psychopathy” – these included signs such as an inability to form friendships and an intense focus on special interests.
Dr Asperger passed away in 1981 before his work became widely recognised within the medical profession.
Read more at: https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/4595413/asperger-syndrome-symptoms-signs-adults-children/
