Ailin Zhang
In the last issue I talked about autism spectrum disorder(ASD), and this time the topic is Asperger’s syndrome. It is very similar to autism, you can even see it as a form of autism.Asperger’s syndrome is often thought of a mild form of autism, there is no real difference betweenAS and ASD. Actually, it masks the core problem through extensive learning and compensatorymeasures.
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symptoms
Hyperfocus is the intense focus on a hobby or activity for a long time. They can manifestthemselves by focusing so much on something or event, then they are like book out the worldaround them.
Trouble recognizing social cues. People with social cueing disorder tend to focus on objectsrather than people. They have difficulty recognizing social signals, and they do not know how toswitch topics of conversation. These make it incredibly difficult for people with Asperger’s tosocialize.
Difficulty reading facial expressions or body language. Many patients have difficulty recognizing and understanding the facial expressions, body language, and voice intonation. They also avoid eye contact when socializing, speak in amonotone. These symptoms can also make them from communicating better with others, and canbe puzzling.
Difficulty with motor skills and coordination. Some kids with Asperger’s may have problemswith basic motor skills, such as walking or running. They may lack coordination, such as riding abicycle.
Asperger’s Syndrome
Many people with autism, including those with Asperger's, do not see it as a disorder. It istrue, however, that this disorder does not require treatment, but they do need support. Support is notthe same as treatment. Some patients may have problems with school, work, and family, andsupport is a great way to help them. The support varies depending on the person's personality orpresentation, etc. Then the earlier these patients can be diagnosed, the better support can beprovided to them, which also allows them to better perform social activities or daily living skills. In conclusion, this disorder does not require treatment, but families need to give themsupport. These may improve the symptoms.
- References -
Burke, D. (2018). Asperger’s Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis. Healthline.
https://www.healthline.com/health/asperger-syndrome
Flippin, R. (2007, October 6). Hyperfocus: The ADHD Phenomenon of Intense Fixation.ADDitude.
https://www.additudemag.com/understanding-adhd-hyperfocus/
Rios, D. C. M. (2021, April 26). Autism vs Asperger’s: What’s the Difference? DevelopmentalPediatrics. https://autismdfw.org/autism-vs-aspergers-whats-the-difference/
Uta Frith. (2008). Autism : a very short introduction. Oxford University Press. (2022). https://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-social-cues-disorder-symptoms-treatment.html
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