Understanding Asperger’s Syndrome
BY: Neighbors’ Consejo|
In a world where neurodiversity is increasingly celebrated and understood, Asperger’s Syndrome stands as a unique and fascinating facet of the human experience. Named after Australian pediatrician Hans Asperger, who first identified the condition in 1940, Asperger’s Syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has garnered significant attention and scrutiny over years. By shedding light on this unique neurological profile, we aim to foster understanding, acceptance, and appreciation for the individuals who enrich the world with their distinctive perspectives and talents.
“Asperger’s syndrome (sometimes called high-functioning autism) is part of a wide diagnosis called autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Since 2013, Asperger’s syndrome is replaced by the broader diagnosis of ASD within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) revised criteria [1]).”
According to the National Autistic [2] Society, “historically, Asperger syndrome was used as a diagnostic term for some autistic people who did not also have a diagnosis of learning disability. Broadly, it is now agreed that what was referred to as Asperger syndrome is part of the autism spectrum and there is no need for a separate term. Some people who received a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome continue to use this terminology to refer to themselves. Others do not, usually for two reasons: Because the term is no longer used officially; and because of revelations about the Austrian psychiatrist Hans Asperger, who Asperger syndrome was named after and who was complicit with the Nazis.”
What causes Asperger’s Syndrome? “The causes of Asperger’s Syndrome are unknown. Genetics and brain abnormalities may be involved. We do know that Asperger’s Syndrome is NOT the result of a child’s upbringing or poor parenting. Asperger’s Syndrome is a neurobiological disorder, meaning it is just a part of the child’s brain development, whose causes are not fully understood [3] .”
The people with this Syndrome have the following symptoms [4] :
- Inappropriate or minimal social interactions
- Conversations that almost always revolve around themselves or a certain topic, rather than others
- Not understanding emotions well or having less facial expression than others
- Speech that sounds unusual, such as flat, high-pitched, quiet, loud, or robotic
- Not using or understanding nonverbal communications, such as gestures, body language and facial expressions
- Memorizing preferred information and facts easily
- Clumsy, uncoordinated movements, including difficulty with handwriting.
- Not understanding other peoples’ feelings or perspectives
- Hypersensitive to lights, sounds and textures.
What are the types of treatments? “Psychological therapy; medications; speech and language therapy; dietary changes; alternative treatment options [5].” Healthline [6] highlights, “cognitive behavioral therapy; vocational therapy and medications.”
In conclusion, Asperger’s syndrome is a unique neurodevelopmental condition characterized by distinct social communication differences and restricted interests. Throughout this article, we have delved into the essential aspects of this syndrome, from its diagnosis and everyday challenges to strategies for support and the significance of inclusivity and understanding in our society.”
That is why it is crucial to remember that in Neighbors’ Consejo, we have awesome professionals that will help you with this and any other mental health condition. Our services are in Washington DC., and free of charge. Contact us. [7]
[1]https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6436-asperger-syndrome
[2]https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/what-is-autism/the-history-of-autism/asperger-syndrome
[3]https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/aspergers-syndrome#:~:text=The%20causes%20of%20Asperger’s%20Syndrome,child’s%20upbringing%20or%20poor%20parenting.
[4]https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/aspergers-syndrome#:~:text=Clumsy%2C%20uncoordinated%20movements%2C%20including%20difficulty,to%20lights%2C%20sounds%20and%20textures
[5]https://www.healthline.com/health/autism/aspergers-treatment#treatment-options
[6]https://www.healthline.com/health/aspergers-symptoms-in-adults#treatment