What is Asperger’s Syndrome?

Asperger’s syndrome is a developmental condition which affects children enabling them to have effective communication skills. Just like autism, a child suffering from this condition may seem to be uncomfortable and isolate himself from others. Children with Asperger’s seem to have eccentric behaviors. They seem to be absorbed by one object for quite sometimes. They also have poor social skills. They seldom have eye contact, facial expressions and most of the time, they seem awkward. Unfortunately, the cause of this condition is unknown and it has no cure.

How is Asperger’s Syndrome diagnosed?

If you suspect your child to have this condition, bringing him or her to a doctor is a good idea. The doctor will ask you series of questions regarding your child’s behavior. Your child will undergo series of tests analyzing his ability to communicate, express, read and write. Intellectual, emotional and psychological evaluations may be done as well. Evaluation might be made by a number of doctors since Asperger’s is a bit hard to diagnose. Some may even mistake it for other developmental problems such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder or ADHD.

How is Asperger’s Syndrome treated?

As mentioned earlier, there is no exact cure for Asperger’s. The doctors will only recommend medications and therapies to lessen its severity and help the child cope and live to his optimum potential. There are no exact medications for Asperger’s, but the doctor can prescribe drugs to relieve depression, anxiousness and agitation which the child can manifest anytime. Therapies are also advised to improve the child’s ability to communicate and understand people, and to improve his social skills. They are taught the right way of expressing how they feel and how to understand non verbal cues such as eye contact, facial expressions and other gestures. The child is also taught of ways to cope with certain situations such as going to school, meeting other people or transferring to another location.

How can a parent help the child cope?

Parents have the most important role in helping the child cope with this condition. They are the ones who have been with the child and are well-oriented about the situation.

You can learn about Asperger’s. Education and information are very important in order to understand what your child is going through. You can ask your doctor, read medical books or journals, and research over the internet about the condition of your child. You can also read ways on how to cope with your child, especially during hard times.

Be familiar with your child’s behavior. Not all children with Asperger’s manifest the same symptoms and characteristics. By being familiar with your child’s behavior, you also learn how to deal with it. Just have patience in going through tough times and show your child how supportive you can be.

Be active in therapies. Your child will undergo therapies until he or she is able to adjust. Be present in therapies so you can learn more about your child and his or her condition. Talk to the professionals in charge of the sessions so that you can also become part of the team.

Inform people about your child’s condition. Some parents may be hesitant about telling people about their child, but it is important to let others know about it. Inform the school, teachers, and people in your neighborhood about your child’s condition so they can also adjust to your child. Since children with Asperger’s may have awkward social skills, others may misinterpret this and be judgmental if they are not properly informed.

Disabilities attached with Asperger’s Syndrome may be difficult to deal with, especially if it happens to your family. With proper education, the right team of medical professionals, and an understanding environment, your child can live with his best ability to cope with life.

Author Bio: Sharon Campbell enjoys writing for Uniformhaven.com which sells cherokee scrubs and baby phat lab coats as well as a host of additional products.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: aspergers syndrome,child development