What is Asperger syndrome?
Asperger syndrome is one of a group of childhood developmental problems known as pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). These disorders include Asperger syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, and autism.
Pervasive developmental disorders share a set of common features, which include:
- Impaired or abnormal development of normal social interactions
- Impaired ability to communicate
- A marked restriction of the usual activities and interests seen in children
What causes these disorders?
In the 1940s, these developmental problems were thought to be caused by parents who were distant and unemotional with their children. By the 1980s, it was known that PDD is caused by a problem with the functioning of the brain. Even to this date, however, the exact cause of PDD remains unknown despite extensive research. Currently available testing such as blood tests or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans have failed to reveal any consistent abnormalities in the brain.
Sometimes PDD runs within families, which suggests that the disorder may have a genetic component. However, PDD also occurs in families that have no history of developmental disorders.
What are the main features of Asperger syndrome?
Communication skills
Children with Asperger syndrome have some abnormalities in speech and language. These abnormalities can include the incorrect use of pronouns or use of the wrong words. The child also misinterprets nonverbal signs and appears to lack interest or understanding.
Social interaction
Limited social interactions is a main feature of Asperger syndrome. This symptom occurs because the child cannot understand and use the rules governing social behavior. The child also tends to be rather rigid and sees the world in black and white. Transitions are difficult and the child often resists change.
Obsessive-compulsive traits
Although children with Asperger syndrome may appear inattentive, they are overly focused and show a degree of intense interest beyond the norm in one or two subjects. These obsessive interests tend to be part of a broader pattern of obsessive-compulsive traits.
Motor skills
While gross motor movements are often clumsy, an individual with Asperger syndrome often has a mixture of overall strengths and weaknesses that are beyond the usual degree.
Intelligence
Many people with Asperger syndrome have an above average intelligence quotient (IQ) and are extremely talented in certain areas. The areas of exceptional skills often involve functions of the right hemisphere of the brain, such as skills with numbers, math, computers, and music.
How is Asperger syndrome diagnosed?
There are no laboratory tests that can be used to diagnose Asperger syndrome. An accurate diagnosis can be made, however, based on specific problems that have occurred during a child’s development. The diagnosis is made after a child has had some abnormalities in speech and language even though he or she may have begun speaking at a normal age.
The diagnosis of Asperger syndrome should be made by a group of specially trained health care providers that includes physicians, psychologists, and speech and language therapists, as well as other professionals who can help define a child's individual strengths and weaknesses.
What types of treatment are available?
Children with Asperger syndrome are capable of learning but often require specific adaptations and accommodations in the classroom to allow them to succeed. An ongoing concern about their inability to deal with social interactions leads to a specific need for them to have training in social skills acquisition. Medication may also play a role in dealing with some of the specific symptoms such as inattention, obsessive-compulsive traits, anxiety and anger control.
Resources
Quill KA (ed). Teaching Children With Autism: Strategies to Enhance Communication and Socialization. New York. Delmar Publishers Inc., 1995.
Attwood T. Asperger Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals. Philadelphia. Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 1998.
© Copyright 1995-2009 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All rights reserved.
Can't find the health information you’re looking for?
Ask a Health Educator, Live!
Know someone who could use this information?...send them this link.
This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 10/9/2006…#6436
