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Asperger syndrome, commonly referred to as Asperger's disorder, is a developmental disorder that was formerly listed as a discrete diagnosis under the umbrella term Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, Asperger syndrome was replaced with a more inclusive diagnosis of ASD in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) released in 2013.
ASD and Asperger's syndrome have no known cures, although early intervention and treatment can help people manage their symptoms and enhance their quality of life. Some of the frequently used treatments include behavioral therapy, speech and language therapy, and medication to treat co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression.
Symptoms of Asperger syndrome
Asperger syndrome is distinguished by considerable issues with social interaction and communication skills, as well as restrictive and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and hobbies.
It may be difficult for people with Asperger's to read social cues and comprehend nonverbal communication, which makes it difficult for them to establish and maintain friendships and other relationships. Intense passions for certain subjects, practices, and rituals may also exist in them, interfering with normal functioning. The following are some typical signs of Asperger's syndrome:
1) Social interaction issues
Individuals with Asperger's syndrome may find it difficult to make eye contact, recognize social signs, or participate in common social conversations.
2) Repeated routines or behaviors
Individuals with Asperger's syndrome may engage in repetitive hand flapping, lining up of objects, or sentence repetition.
3) Heightened concentration on particular interests
Individuals with Asperger's may develop a deep passion for the subject and invest a lot of time and effort into it.
4) Sensitivity to sensory stimuli
Asperger's patients could be more sensitive to sensory stimuli like loud noises or bright lights.
5) Difficulty in adjustments
Individuals with this would also have trouble adjusting to habits or environmental changes. It is important to note that each developmental problem is characterized by difficulty in adjusting to novelty.
Treatment of Asperger syndrome
Although there is no recognized treatment for Asperger syndrome, there are therapies and treatments that can help people manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.. The following are some of the typical Asperger syndrome treatments:
1) Behavioral therapies
These treatments, like applied behavior analysis (ABA), can assist those with Asperger's syndrome in acquiring new abilities, such as social, communication, and coping mechanisms.
2) Training in social skills
The goal of this therapy is to assist those with this disorder in acquiring social abilities and learning how to interact with others.
3) Speech therapy
This treatment supports the development of a person with Asperger syndrome's language, conversational abilities, and nonverbal communication.
4) Occupational therapy
This treatment can help people enhance their motor skills, sensory integration, and competence in performing everyday activities.
5) Medication
Medicines may occasionally be administered to treat Asperger's syndrome symptoms like anxiety, sadness, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Adults with Asperger's
Although it is typically diagnosed in childhood, some people may not find out until they are adults. Adults with Asperger's syndrome may encounter a number of difficulties in their daily lives, including communication difficulties, problems developing and sustaining relationships, and difficulty reading social cues.
They can have repetitive behaviors or routines and have a limited variety of interests. Moreover, they may experience difficulties with sensory processing, such as sensitivity to particular noises, textures, or lights.
Adults with Asperger's syndrome and other developmental problems like Autism may struggle in the workplace to operate as a team, comprehend office politics, and adjust to routine changes. Yet, they might perform particularly well in occupations that call for autonomous work, technical expertise, and attention to detail.
It's vital to remember that people with Asperger's syndrome have certain talents and skills. They might have sharp analytical minds, strong recollections, and in-depth expertise in their chosen fields. Many adults with Asperger syndrome can lead successful lives and make contributions to their communities with the right care.
Janvi Kapur is a counselor with a Master's degree in applied psychology with a specialization in clinical psychology.
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