Understanding Asperger Syndrome
It can be hard to differentiate between Asperger syndrome and a high functioning autistic disorder, because both of these disorders are in the autistic spectrum. However those with AS do not display delays in either cognitive or language development skills. But because this can also be said of those with high functioning autism, it can sometimes be difficult to differentiate between the two.
Hans Asperger, an Austrian pediatrician, was the first to pinpoint the disorder in 1944, when he described his patients as failing to demonstrate empathy, as well as lacking nonverbal communication skills. It wasn’t until 50 years later that this syndrome was finally recognized and classified as an actual disorder. Today, there are still many questions about the autistic disorder-like impairment. There has long been doubt about the differences in high functioning autistic individuals and those that have AS.
The symptoms of Asperger syndrome are managed by different treatments and individual plans to help the patient develop increased vocational and communication skills. These plans are made depending on the age of the patient and their individual needs and can be adapted as each individual progresses. While several methods are used, it is not completely conclusive that certain intervening methods work. Physicians can use similar procedures to treat autism patients who are highly functioning and AS patients.
asperger syndrome is one of many disorders that fall within the autism spectrum. There have been many studies and much research done to try and find out more about this disorder. While a lot of information has been discovered, there is still much more to learn. Experts understand some of the reasons why individuals may have this disorder but, as with other disorders, such as autism, not all of the answers have been found. Much has been discovered to help those afflicted to increase their social skills and to stop repetitive behavior skills. Helping individuals to increase these skills allows them to live a more prosperous lifestyle and have a more productive future.