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Aspergers

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General Psychology
Asperger’s Syndrome
Tiffany Beach

Asperger's syndrome is defined as a developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to socialize and communicate effectively with others.
Doctors group Asperger's syndrome with other conditions that are called autistic spectrum disorders or pervasive developmental disorders, these disorders affect social skills and communication. A good thing to keep in mind Asperger’s syndrome is generally thought to be at the milder end of the autistic spectrum disorders. There is no cure for Asperger's syndrome, but if your child has the condition treatment can help him or her learn how to interact more successfully in social situations. Children with Asperger's syndrome usually don't have delays in the development of language skills, but can develop delays in their motor skills. While children with Asperger's syndrome engage in conversation they may feel awkward and lack usual give and take, also showing signs of not wanting to form friendships. Despite all of this a child with Asperger’s syndrome can be quite active. Here are a few questions to help determine if your child may have Asperger’s syndrome: * Does your child engage in one-sided, long-winded conversations and not notice if the listener is listening or trying to change the subject? * Do they show an intense obsession with one or two specific subjects, such as baseball statistics, train schedules, or weather? * Have they appeared to not comprehend or be sensitive to others' feelings? * Having a hard time "reading" other people or understanding humor? * Do they speak in a voice that is monotonous, rigid or strangely fast?

Children with Asperger's syndrome usually don't have delays in the development of language skills, but can develop delays in their motor skills. While children with Asperger's syndrome engage in conversation they may feel awkward and lack usual give and take, also showing signs of not wanting to form friendships. Despite all of this a child with Asperger’s syndrome can be quite active. As they reach young adulthood, children with Asperger’s syndrome may experience depression and anxiety. There is no sure reason of what causes Asperger’s syndrome or why it’s more likely to appear in males rather than females, although changes in certain genes may be involved, the disorder is linked to changes in the structure of the brain. Be aware that there is a chance your child could be misdiagnosed with another disorder known as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or obsessive-compulsive disorder. (OCD) Get yourself prepared for your first doctors’ visit, make a list of questions you have, create a list of things that stand out to you as a symptom. Your first doctor’s visit will be with your child’s regular pediatrician, who will then refer you and your child to a mental health expert. Although there is no known cure for Asperger’s syndrome there are many ways to help your child advance and cope with the disorder. One such therapy is Cognitive behavior therapy, this teaches techniques aimed at behavioral problems, obsessions and meltdowns, feelings and coping with anxiety. Your path ahead may seem to be long and filled with hardship, but remember with the help of your doctor, mental health expert, family and friends; your child is most likely to be a happy, well-adjusted adult.

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