Transcript Asperger`s Syndrom

Asperger’s Syndrom
“Little Professors”
What is Aspergers Syndrome?
• within the autism spectrum disorders
• estimated that out of 10,000 individuals, 60
have some a form of an Autism Spectrum
Disorder
• neurological conditions that are characterized
by impairment of language and
communication skills
• characterised by thoughts and behaviours that
have restrictive patters and are repetitive
History
• Considered a diagnosis in 1992
• Hans Asperger in 1944 (Austrian paediatrician)
• observed four children- difficulty integrating,
normal intelligence, lacked nonverbal
communication skills, clumsy, not empathic
• disjointed and formal language centered on a
single topic
Common Signs and Symptoms
• The 3 core symptoms: poor
communication skills,
obsessive or repetitive
routines and clumsiness
• obsessive interest in a single
topic
• often speak very little about
anything else
• “little professors”
• series of facts, unable to
regulate the volume of their
speech and speak very
monotone
• typically poor social skills, unaware of others
thoughts and feelings
• inability to use appropriate facial expressions
and gesture and difficult time with eye contact
• frequent victims of bullying and teasing
• typically have a deep desire to have
friendships, however have a difficult time
gaining and maintaining them
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do not respond well to changes
exaggerated emotional responses
delays in motor skills
awkward walk that looks stilted or bouncy.
over sensitive senses
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsgwezeTsQY
Causes and Treatments
• cause not yet known
• suggestions that it may be genetic
• effective treatment program: build on their
interests, offer a predictable schedule, teach
tasks in a series of simple steps, engage their
attention and provide regular reinforcement
of behaviours
• can learn to cope with their disabilities, but
may still find social situations and personal
relationships challenging