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[A791]Autism And Aspergers Syndrome

by Dave Angel, Dav

This article sets out to outline many of the characteristics of Aspergers syndrome in such a way that the information can easily be shared with others. Autistic Spectrum Disorder (autism) is a life-long developmental disability that affects social and communication skills. Each person with autism displays different symptoms and behavior; some people with autism remain non-verbal and will need life-long care. Other people with the condition live independent lives, hold down careers, go to university, get married and have children.

Aspergers syndrome is a form of autism that was defined by an Austrian pediatrician over 50 years ago. People with Aspergers syndrome are usually at this more ‘able' end of the spectrum. Like autism, Aspergers syndrome, seems to be caused by a biological difference in the brain's development. In many cases there appears to be a genetic cause; there are many cases of autism and Aspergers syndrome running in the same family. One study has estimated that 3 to 7 in 1,000 people have AS. People with Aspergers syndrome share many of the same characteristics as people with autism but they usually do not have any accompanying learning disabilities. Explaining Aspergers syndrome isn't easy, no matter who you are talking to! It's not something that can be described in a single, snappy sentence! There are problems because you cannot tell by looking at someone if they have Aspergers syndrome. Also because the causes of Aspergers are yet to be clearly identified it can sometimes be difficult convincing people that the condition actually exists. You could try by explaining that, people with Aspergers basically have problems in 3 major areas. This is usually part of the criteria for diagnosing Aspergers syndrome. These areas are:

Social communication: This means knowing what to say to other people and understanding the meaning of what they are saying to you. Just imagine how many times a day the basics of social communication come into your child's life; at the shops, at home, at school, in the street. People with Aspergers Syndrome can have problems when talking to other people as they can take things people say literally. An example would be if you say to someone with Aspergers "I laughed my head off" they may become alarmed believing that your head really did come off of your body. It can be very hard for people with Aspergers to understand when someone is joking and that is why they may become angry or upset by something you have said that wasn't meant to be hurtful.

Social Understanding: This means knowing what to do when you are with other people. People with Aspergers have difficulty understanding social relationships, they do not understand all the rules involved in social relationships. As we grow up we learn how to behave appropriately in certain situations, for example we learn not to say things to people like "you look fat" (unless we are deliberately trying to be hurtful). A person with AS usually doesn't meant to be rude, even though it can sometimes appear so, it's because their understanding of how to behave is confused.

Imagination This is the ability to think about things that aren't real. Children with Aspergers syndrome tend not to be interested in games that involve pretending to be someone else (like cops and robbers). Some children with Aspergers can be very interested in things that aren't interesting to other children or exclude social interaction. They may like collecting items that seem dull or unusual to us.

There are also websites that provide a great deal of information about the condition. A good one is Sibnet, set up by the Seattle Children's Hospital Project. Sibnet is specifically for siblings of disabled children and is for both young siblings and adult brothers and sisters. The site contains information and resources for siblings of disabled children and allows them to subscribe to the site - a place where they can share information and discuss issues they may be facing.

This article set out to provide a simple ‘user friendly' overview of the indicators of Aspergers Syndrome in such a way that you could explain it to other people who might have no idea what the condition was. Providing people with a simple and straightforward account of the condition will help them to understand the condition better, and provide you and your family with a much needed support network!

Because children with AS struggle socially, academically, and even within their own family, they may experience periods of depression or other mental health issues. It is not unusual for a child that has difficulty "fitting in" to experience depression. This is across the board and not exclusive to children with Aspergers. But for children with Aspergers research tends to indicate that they are most vulnerable to this in their adolescent years. This is because in earlier years at school and home the influence of their parents and teachers are large. Whereas in adolescence the need to fit in with peers become more important. This is when the problems of trying to fit in with not enough social skills arise.

Often another factor for many children with Aspergers can sadly be that they are bullied in school. Luke Jackson in his excellent book "Freaks, Geeks and Aspergers" wrote that "when I started school I struggled to understand what was going on, but one thing I did understand was that most of the kids were pretty mean to me". If you note changes in your child's activity level, appetite, or just general demeanor, it is time to consider this. You should attempt to discuss with the child what the issues are and try to understand what is happening for them. Professionals may assist you in planning for their well-being or in prescribing medication.

Now I am always very hesitant about medication for anyone; particularly young people. It has its place and can be invaluable but it should not be used as the only approach. Depression generally has a mix of physical, social and emotional factors and so all cannot be solved with a miracle white pill. But medication is worthwhile if it is intended to improve quality of life. Quality of life can be measured in terms of benefit versus risk. If your child experiences severe side effects, which you should educate yourself about prior to, then the risk outweighs the benefit. If your child experiences mild side effects, such as dry mouth or the like, then the benefits probably outweigh the risks.

To properly understand the side effects there are many good sources of information on the internet. Try typing in "antidepressant medication side effects" into Google and have a browse through the web pages. Also make sure that you have a good discussion with the prescribing doctor and ask all about the benefits and risks. The important thing is that you know your child, and you know when they are feeling good and when they are not. Go with your gut instinct when it comes to medication and the side effects. If something seems wrong to you ? it probably is and you should talk to your doctor. Your child will function best when he or she feels good. This may be attributed to diet, medications, activity level, or just daily routine. Which is another point on treating possible depression in your child. Regular physical activity and good diet can play a big part in helping people to start to feel better. As can something as simple as getting your child to watch their favourite funny cartoons or films to help lift their spirits.

So to summarize this article you need to be aware of changes in your child' moods, activity levels or appetite. This is particularly the case in adolescence. Such issues may be a symptom of depression and so You need to discuss the problems with your child and take more specialist help if needed. And remember to Consider both medical and non-medical interventions to help with this.

Article Source : book on autism

Dave Angel has sinced written about articles on various topics from Autism, Fitness and Family. Dave Angel is a social worker with families who have children on the Autistic Spectrum and is the author of a new e-book that answers the 46 most asked questions by parents of children with Asperger’s. To claim your free 7 day Mini-Course for parents of c. Dave Angel's top article generates over 6600 views. to your Favourites.