The Affects Of Asperger's Syndrome

Asperger's Syndrome is a disorder that affects thousands of families each year. It's detected more often in boys than girls. In fact, Asperger's Syndrome affects males 4 to 5 times more often than females. Although there is no known cause of this syndrome, it is believed to be connected with autism, in some way.

What is Asperger's Syndrome?

This syndrome is defined by the American Psychiatric Association, as being a developmental disorder. Asperger's Syndrome, or PDD is often detected in children, because of some common symptoms. These symptoms are often noticed by parents, and then reported to their pediatricians.

There are three top symptoms pediatricians, or family doctors, use to diagnose Asperger's Syndrome. One of these is the child's abnormal social reactions. In children with Asperger's, social settings can trigger unusual reactions. They are extremely susceptible to being in crowds, or people they do not know.

Children with this syndrome, also tend to exhibit strange facial expressions. This is also, often related to social settings. Another symptom that is often noticed is that of abnormal gestures, exhibited by the child. These three are closely related to symptoms; autistic children are known, to expereience.

There are differences between Asperger's and autism.

Specialists have found that although there are some specific similarities between autism and Asperger's, there are many differences. Many in the field of psychiatric medicine will go on believing, however, that there is a direct connection between these disorders.

One of the main differences between Asperger's Syndrome and autism is language. In autism language can be delayed, even permanently in some cases. But with Asperger's, language development appears to be normal, in most aspects. The language does seem abnormal, as it relates to both pitch and rhythm.

Another major difference of Asperger's Syndrome, has to do with the child's overall development skills. With this condition, overall development does not seem to be hindered. And this is related to both physical and relational skills. Autistic children, tend to experience mild to severe delays in both of these areas.

What treatment is available for Asperger's Syndrome?

Since there is no known cause for Asperger's Syndrome, it is also not possible to have a cure all for its symptoms. It is possible though to treat the affects, and symptoms children with this disorder, exhibit. With specific types of treatment, children with Asperger's can perform at the highest level possible for them. Treatment and training aspects can be crucial to handling the affects of Asperger's Syndrome.

One form of treatment is that of speech therapy. In this type of therapy, a speech pathologist, can work with the child's speech patterns. In cases where pitch and rhythm are a problem, this specialist can teach the child how to improve in this area. They can learn skills to assist them in communicating better.

Another form of treatment is positive reinforcement. This is most often used with autistic children. Through this type of training, children can learn what behavior is good or bad. Through it they will gain understanding on how best to act in different situations.