Its name comes from the Austrian pediatrician who discovered the developmental syndrome. In 1944, Hans Asperger described children in his practice who lacked nonverbal communication, had a limited understanding of other people’s’ feelings, and were physically clumsy. For years Asperger’s Syndrome was considered a stand-alone diagnosis. But in 2013 it was placed under the medical umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Suddenly, people previously thought to be exhibiting symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome were now considered to be at the mild or high end of the autism spectrum. Despite this new categorization many parents and caregivers of children diagnosed with Asperger’s remain unaware of the range of symptoms within this syndrome.
Emotional Sensitivity
Children diagnosed with Asperger’s often have difficulty regulating their emotions. They are usually very affected by what most perceive as minor or insignificant stressors. What might produce mild agitation for one child would result in difficulty concentrating for an entire day, angry outbursts, or even periods of crying and isolation for one with Asperger ’s. A person with high-functioning Autism may be greatly distressed by events as minor as schedule changes, running out of a grocery item, or being cut off while in traffic. Children with this syndrome may have meltdowns or tantrums when a teacher calls on them in class, or when another child plays with their favorite toy.
Fixation on Subjects or Ideas
Often, individuals on the higher end of the Autism spectrum may fixate on a topic, subject matter, or hobby. They are persistent in discussing a topic in conversation with little interest in talking about anything else. Similarly, a person with Asperger’s might have an unyielding preoccupation with a particular subject matter or insistence on listening to only one song repeatedly. These are all ways in which fixation on subjects or ideas may be exhibited. Other examples include a person may be so consumed with a video game that no other topic or activity interests them. These obsessions can be limiting in a social context. Yet in contrast, with proper guidance, they could result in extremely successful careers and high achievement in their particular area of interest.
Social Difficulties
Persons on the higher end of the Autism spectrum often have difficulty interacting with their peers. A child with high-functioning Autism may not be interested in sharing toys or participating in group games. Teenagers with the same syndrome may lack the ability or interest to engage in meaningful conversations, reciprocate feelings, or participate in the same activities as their peers. Typically these social difficulties result in a lack of a social circle or meaningful friendships. Persons with Asperger’s may be described by peers as quirky or socially awkward. Thankfully experienced counselors and behaviorists can help teach social skills that may be lacking. As a parent, it’s important to remember to allow your child with high-functioning Autism to be themselves and to find social circles that share their similar interests.
Problems Processing Physical Sensations
For a person with high-functioning Autism the subway, a piece of fabric or simply a hug may produce stress, anxiety, or emotional outbursts. As a result, they may avoid these uncomfortable situations by refusing to use public transportation or insisting on wearing only one or two favorite pieces of clothing. Unfortunately, this can lead to further social difficulties and participation in a limited set of activities.
A Range of Symptoms and Available Help
What was diagnosed in 1944 as physical clumsiness, difficulty understanding other’s feelings and a lack of nonverbal communication has evolved tremendously. Today, thanks to a new categorization people with Asperger’s syndrome now fall under the diagnostic umbrella of Autism. With that comes a long history of research and a wide range of resources to help them grow and thrive in today’s society.