ASPERGER'S SYNDROME

Asperger's syndrome is a developmental disorder that is part of the autism

spectrum. Some key things to know about Asperger's syndrome include:
• It affects ability to effectively socialize and communicate. People
with Asperger's may have difficulty picking up on social cues,
engaging in back-and-forth conversation, making eye contact, and
understanding humor or figures of speech.
• It does not affect intelligence. People with Asperger's typically have
average or above average intelligence. Their intense interests and
excellent memories can lead to talent in fields like science, math,
music, and programming.
• It often involves restrictive, repetitive patterns of behavior. People
with Asperger's may have very rigid routines, focused interests that
border on obsession, sensory issues, and poor motor skills.
• It makes it hard to relate to peers. Because of their social difficulties,
people with Asperger's often struggled to make friendships,
especially with people their own age. They may feel isolated and
lonely as a result.
• Early intervention can help. Social skills training from a young age
can help people with Asperger's better understand conversations,
body language, and subtleties in language. Building coping skills is
also very useful.
• Many people with Asperger's lead full, productive lives. With the
right support, people with Asperger's can thrive personally and
professionally. Many make important contributions because of their
unique perspectives and talents.
The key is understanding the challenges of Asperger's and providing the
appropriate accommodations and support. Increased awareness in schools
and workplaces is still needed.