Autism and Asperger’s syndrome
There are many syndromes that involve autism, and the average person has little idea of the components of each syndrome. Autism and Asperger’s syndrome are part of the autism spectrum disorder. By definition, Asperger’s syndrome is a milder form of autism.
One of the most striking aspects of autism as a whole is how it is diagnosed and even recognized in childhood. Many people may notice that there’s something different or odd about the behavior of your child. Naturally, the instinct to be protective, overtakes the responsibility to analyze their child’s behavior. Unfortunately, this can lead to a delay in the proper diagnosis and treatment of autism. It is understandable that many people would simply love to ignore behavior that they think the child will outgrow.
What are some of the symptoms of autism and Asperger’s syndrome? This disorder is more common in boys than girls. It usually manifests itself in the form of obsessive compulsive behavior, such as an interest in one major subject. These subjects can be anything from a fixation on model rockets or more cars or even very odd things. They become experts and are aware of many of the fine details of each subject.
Despite being able to demonstrate a vast knowledge on one subject, the individual who has Asperger’s syndrome is usually socially awkward. They have great difficulty in social settings. Typically, the AS child is diagnosed at between ages five and nine. Peculiar mannerisms, odd speech patterns, and obsessive compulsive behavior make up the bulk of the symptoms. The lack of facial expressions is also another symptom or sign of this disorder. There is a certain lack of empathy for others.
What is the cause of this disorder? It appears that from all the research available at this time, Asperger’s syndrome is hereditary in nature. It has been wrongly assumed that this disorder is caused by a lack of attention or abuse to the child. Also, it is thought that Asperger’s syndrome is part of further mental problems. Often times, there is an underlying mental disorder such as depression or even schizophrenia with some patients.
Because there is no known cure for this disorder, early intervention is essential. The treatment process for Asperger’s syndrome, starts with a proper evaluation. This evaluation is properly known as a psychosocial evaluation. After all aspects of the child’s personality and behavior have been evaluated, a treatment plan will be implemented. In some cases, inpatient hospitalization may be needed if the child has underlying disorders such as severe depression, or even schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorders. Inpatient hospitalization would be reserved for the individual who is actively hallucinating, or maybe a danger to themselves or others.
Medications may form the backbone of treatment at that the very early stages of AS, if it involves psychotic symptoms. And of course, if the child is suffering from severe depression. Besides controlling symptoms of medication, sensory integration and language therapy may benefit the sufferer. Training for the parent will be necessary, as this disorder requires education and patience. Social skills training, behavioral cognitive therapy and psychotherapy, may be implemented as part of the overall treatment plan. Each child will have to be evaluated and treated on an individual basis. There is no cookie cutter approach to this problem.
Now we know a little more about Autism and Asperger’s syndrome, what does the future hold for children that are diagnosed with this disorder? It may be necessary for children with AS, to go to specialized schools with experience in how to deal with the Asperger’s child. In some schools, there may be programs that can assist your child in progressing with their treatment. It is important, that children with this disorder, are known to teachers at school. And without being aware of the child’s disorder, teachers may not recognize the symptoms of AS and may respond inappropriately to the child’s behaviors.
Parents and friends of the Asperger’s syndrome child may feel overwhelmed and helpless in helping with this problem. It is important that everyone associated with the family, fully understand via education, the disease process of Autism with respect to Autism and Asperger’s syndrome.
Read more about this condition at autism
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