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Asperger Syndrome
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Asperger Syndrome is on the high end of the Autism spectrum. Usually it will have milder symptoms that are closely related to Autism. They share toe-walking, repetitive behaviors, and awkward social interactions. Although most children with Asperger Syndrome are average to above average when it comes to speech and vocabulary.
A Viennese pediatrician named Hans Asperger first described odd behavioral patterns, mostly in his males patients. He noted that these boys had normal speech development and intelligence. Though severely impaired when it came to social skills, poor coordination, and impairments involving interaction with others.
There are no set reasons as to why one will be affected by Aspergers. Mental health experts are researching the idea that it may be hereditary. They are also looking into environmental factors that may affect the brain. Although some will argue that it is caused by emotional depravation, this is not been proved. My daughter has Aspergers and ADD, I was horrified when I was told by a professional that it was poor parenting skills that caused her to act out. I have found in my research that many parents are given that harsh news. My advise: you are the parent, you know your child. Fight for them. I had to fight many doctors who just would not listen. I found wonderful doctors, nurses and staff at the Hartford Children’s Hospital.
As with all of the Autism Spectrum Disorders there is no cure. Treatments are available to help parents, family and the affected children in the form of support and education. Also gluten and casein free diets used by some families seem to have great results. Children with Autism have been noted to have poor gastrointestinal function. Parents who have decided to try the diet have seen a mild to dramatic improvement in speech and behavior. The theory is that children affected by Autism can not properly digest gluten and casein which form substances that act like opiates in their bodies. According to this theory these opiate-like substances can alter a persons behavior, and responses. More research is needed however. Many people with Asperger Syndrome will function well in society, go to school, hold a job and so on. Try not to feel overwhelmed by a diagnosis, treatments start at home with encourgment, support and love.
Suggested Reading: Look Me In the Eye by John Elder Robison.
He will be appearing at Barnes and Noble located at 25 Hazard Ave Enfield Ct 06082
Friday November 14, 2008 begining at 6pm.
Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome by Tony Attwood
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