Asperger’s Syndrom “Little Professors”

What is Aspergers Syndrome? within the autism spectrum disorders estimated that out of 10,000 individuals, 60 have some a form of an Autism Spectrum Disorder neurological conditions that are characterized by impairment of language and communication skills characterised by thoughts and behaviours that have restrictive patters and are repetitive

History Considered a diagnosis in 1992 Hans Asperger in 1944 (Austrian paediatrician) observed four children- difficulty integrating, normal intelligence, lacked nonverbal communication skills, clumsy, not empathic disjointed and formal language centered on a single topic

Common Signs and Symptoms The 3 core symptoms: poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines and clumsiness obsessive interest in a single topic often speak very little about anything else “little professors” series of facts, unable to regulate the volume of their speech and speak very monotone

typically poor social skills, unaware of others thoughts and feelings inability to use appropriate facial expressions and gesture and difficult time with eye contact frequent victims of bullying and teasing typically have a deep desire to have friendships, however have a difficult time gaining and maintaining them

do not respond well to changes exaggerated emotional responses delays in motor skills awkward walk that looks stilted or bouncy. over sensitive senses

Causes and Treatments cause not yet known suggestions that it may be genetic effective treatment program: build on their interests, offer a predictable schedule, teach tasks in a series of simple steps, engage their attention and provide regular reinforcement of behaviours can learn to cope with their disabilities, but may still find social situations and personal relationships challenging