Children who have Asperger Disorder also have difficulty with social interactions
and communication skills and may have abnormal behavior patterns. These
children do not experience the significant language delays associated with
Autism.
While each child’s specific pattern of behavior is different, behaviors often
demonstrated by these children include:
Problems with social interaction
- Difficulty making eye contact or interpreting facial expressions to interact
with others
- Failure to develop peer relationships which are age-appropriate
- Not seeking to share interests or enjoyments with others
Abnormal behavior patterns:
- Preoccupation with one interest that is abnormal in intensity or focus
- Strict adherence to certain routines or rituals
- Repetitive motor movements (e.g. hand or finger flapping)
What causes Autism Spectrum Disorders?
Currently, there is no single known cause of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Yet,
many research studies have found that there is a link between Autism and
certain genes. Studies have shown that approximately 5% of children who have a
sibling with ASD will also develop the Disorder and this is 50% greater than the
rate in the normal population.
The question of whether environmental factors play a role in the development of
ASD has been highlighted in the media and has also been researched.
Recently, there has been significant media focus on whether exposure to
thimerosal, the mercury based preservative used in the measles-mumps-rubella
(MMR) vaccine, increases the likelihood of developing ASD. While the
discussion is ongoing, so far, research has not shown a causal relationship
between thimerosal and ASD.
Other research has looked at how children with ASD process information.
Studies show that there are differences in brain functioning and in the ways that
children with ASD process information, compared to children who do not have
ASD. The significance of these differences is still being researched.
How can Autism Spectrum Disorders be Treated?
There is currently no cure for Autism or Asperger Disorder. Yet, many treatments
are available and can be beneficial. The best treatments for a specific child are
determined by the treating professionals and family working together.
The most commonly used treatment is behavior therapy. This type of therapy
seeks to help children with ASD adapt and interact with their environment (such
assisting them in everyday tasks and functions, e.g. sitting quietly at the table
and asking for a glass of juice).
Another approach is through managing a child’s diet. This may include
restrictive diets such as Gluten-free or casein-free diets, or vitamin supplements.
Research has not supported the effectiveness of this approach.
Currently, there are no medications for the treatment of ASD. However,
medications may be used to alleviate symptoms and improve a child’s
functioning by helping a child focus and to relieve anxiety.
Additional Information about Autism Spectrum Disorders
Cure Autism Now (CAN)
http://www.cureautismnow.org
Cure Autism Now (CAN) is a foundation committed to raising money for
biomedical research on Autism. It was founded in 1995 and has become the
largest support provider for Autism research. The site has a complete information
section on Autism, which is easy to read. There are also descriptions of the
research programs supported by the foundation. This is a great way to learn
about the different research initiatives being made.
Families for Early Autism Treatment (FEAT)
http://www.feat.org
Families for Early Autism Treatment (FEAT) is a non-profit organization designed
to support families with children diagnosed with ASD. It provides a network for
families and resources include a newsletter, lending library and parent resource
meetings. There is no New York State division, but there is one in Connecticut
(http://www.ctfeat.org).
National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR)
http://www.naar.org/naar.asp
The National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR) was the first U.S organization
dedicated to promoting biomedical research on ASD. There is a helpful section
on “Governmental Affairs” which provides information about Autism-related
action in the government.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/autism.cfm
This section of the NIMH website gives a detailed description of ASD, including
specifics concerning symptoms and other medical problems associated with the
Disorders. There is also a helpful section on treatment options and questions
parents should ask clinicians and teachers.
Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support (Oasis)
http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/
Onine Asperger Syndrome Information and Support (Oasis) offers an extensive
variety of information, support and education specifically about Asperger
Disorder. Some of the highlights of the website include a message board for both
parents and children, a list of camps and schools and educational computer
programs for children diagnosed with the Disorder.
Books About Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism: Explaining the Enigma by Uta Frith
This book does an excellent job of explaining the different symptoms of autism,
theories of causes and also current research. The book is an easy read and
entertaining.
Everybody Is Different: A Book for Young People Who Have Brothers or Sisters
with Autism by Fiona Bleach
This book is designed to help explain Autism Spectrum Disorder to the brothers
and sisters of children with the condition. The target reading level is 9-12.
Autism Spectrum Disorders: The Complete Guide to Understanding Autism,
Asperger’s Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, and Others ASDs by
Chantal Sicile-Kira, Temple Grandin
This book was highly rated by doctors, researchers and parents as a “Must
Have.” It offers advice, support and information. It includes addresses and
websites of further resources.
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