Asperger Syndrome: What Is It?

Asperger syndrome is a developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to socialize and communicate effectively with others. People with Asperger syndrome often have difficulty understanding nonverbal communication, such as body language or facial expressions. They may also have trouble understanding jokes or sarcasm. Asperger syndrome is considered to be part of the autism spectrum.

Asperger Syndrome: Causes And Risk Factors

Asperger syndrome is a neurological disorder that affects a person's ability to socialize and communicate effectively with others. The exact cause of Asperger syndrome is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the risk factors for Asperger syndrome include having a family member with the disorder, being born prematurely, and having certain medical conditions. Although there is no cure for Asperger syndrome, early diagnosis and intervention can help children with the disorder learn how to cope with their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Asperger Syndrome: Symptoms And Behaviors

Asperger syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and are often first noticed in early childhood. Parents of children with Asperger syndrome may notice that their child has difficulty making eye contact, does not respond to his or her name being called, or does not point or wave goodbye when leaving. Other symptoms may include:

• An intense interest in one or two subjects
• Repetitive behaviors or mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, spinning)
• Difficulty understanding or using nonverbal communication (e.g., facial expressions, body language)
• Problems with social skills (e.g., not knowing how to start a conversation, not knowing how to take turns in conversation)
• Difficulty making friends
• A tendency to be literal in understanding language
• A preference for routine and familiarity

If you suspect that your child has Asperger syndrome, talk to your child's doctor. There is no "cure" for Asperger syndrome, but early diagnosis and intervention can make a big difference in the lives of children with this condition.

Asperger Syndrome: Diagnosis And Treatment

Asperger syndrome is a developmental disability that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others. People with Asperger syndrome often have difficulty reading social cues, such as body language and facial expressions, and they may not understand the implications of their words and actions. Asperger syndrome can be diagnosed in children as young as two years old, although most children are not diagnosed until they are older. There is no cure for Asperger syndrome, but there are treatments that can help people with the condition manage their symptoms.

Asperger Syndrome: Living With The Condition

Asperger Syndrome is a condition on the autism spectrum. It can make social interaction and communication difficult. People with Asperger Syndrome often have difficulty understanding nonverbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions. They may also have trouble understanding jokes or sarcasm. Asperger Syndrome can make it hard to understand other people's emotions, and to express your own emotions. People with Asperger Syndrome often like to stick to routines and may become very upset if their routines are disrupted. Many people with Asperger Syndrome are extremely intelligent and have successful careers.