Teenage Culture and Asperger’s Syndrome

Young people with Asperger’s are disadvantaged in a teenage world that is largely about social groups, interaction, acceptance and fitting in. Teaching social skills for Asperger’s teens is a vital part of helping them through this stage. This can be done through therapy, by family members working with them, and teens with Asperger’s can also help themselves by working on their weaknesses. Click here for more details and ideas.

Specialists that Work with Children with Autism

In their book, Quirky Kids, Perri Klass and Eileen Costello list the specialists that may be involved in working with an autistic child. Some of these are more on the diagnostic side and will recommend therapies that are carried out by other health professionals. Because of the wide range of problems that present in autistic children, many parents are overwhelmed at the number of doctors involved in their child’s care.

Doctors and Specialists who Diagnose Autism

When a child is diagnosed as being autistic, there are a number of doctors who may assess him and determine what type of help he needs:

• A psychologist evaluates a child’s intelligence and cognition.
• A school psychologist evaluates a child’s educational potential.
• A neuropsychologist specializes in processes of learning and thought. They test for things like the ability to sit still, to focus and to process information and organize thoughts.
• A pediatric neurologist specializes in the brain and nervous system. He examines a child and looks at muscle groups and the ability of nerves to register sensation. He also looks at reflexes, coordination and mental skills.
• A developmental and behavioral pediatrician specializes in behavior and development and often works to coordinate the results and recommendations of other specialists.
• A child psychiatrist assesses the child’s mind and how he thinks. He is normally more of an overseer and often works to coordinate medications and progress on a periodical basis.

Specialist Help for Physical Problems in Autistic Children

Physical problems and poor muscle tone are common in autistic children and there are therapists that can help them strengthen their abilities:

• Physical therapists work with large muscle groups and look at skills such as throwing a ball, sitting in a chair and walking up and down stairs.
• Occupational therapists concentrate on smaller muscle groups such as the hands and face. Poor handwriting is a common problem among autistic children and they may struggle to eat and tie shoe laces. Occupational therapists also work on sensory problems such as oversensitivity to clothing tags or difficulty with spinning and swinging.

Speech and Language Therapy for Children with Autism

Speech problems in autistic children come in many forms and degrees of severity. Difficulties may include stuttering and speech impediments. Other autistic children can speak but do not understand the flow and rhythm of speech. They may sound pedantic and stilted when engaging in conversation. A speech therapist works with any type of speech problem and can help an autistic child to sound more normal and use speech in an appropriate manner.

 

Autistic children are often seen by several specialists who have different skills. Some will diagnose his condition and pinpoint his weaknesses while others will work with the child to help him reach his full potential and overcome difficulties. While it may seem overwhelming, it is best to work with the recommended specialists and give the child the best chance at a successful future.

Reference:
Klass, Perri and Eileen Costello, Quirky Kids, Ballantine Books, Random House Publishing, 2003.

Asperger's Syndrome and Dogs

Some children with Asperger's syndrome do not like animals of any kind while others become very attached to a family pet, especially a dog. This may be due to the silent companionship a canine friend offers as well as the acceptance and loyalty. If you have a child on the autism spectrum, observe their behaviour towards pets and if it is positive, it may be worth letting them get a dog of their own. Cowboy & Wills by Monica Holloway is a sad but heartwarming story of how a dog helped a young boy with autism. For more information on what breed of dogs are most helpful for autistic children, click here.

Book Review of 22 Things a Woman Must Know if she Loves a Man with Asperger’s Syndrome

22 Things a Woman Must Know if she Loves a Man with Asperger’s Syndrome by Rudy Simone is an invaluable resource for women dating, or married to a man with Asperger’s. Divided into 22 chapters, it is simple to read and easy to understand.

Topics addressed include the following:

• loneliness
• lack of affection
• sex
• bad temperedness
• depression
• embarrassment
• social networks for the woman
• the meaning of time

The book uses practical examples that women can relate to and these are healing in themselves. Understanding her man’s quirks are not directly aimed at her, but are just part of the syndrome can release her to find social contact elsewhere. It also allows the relationship more freedom as she will realise she cannot change her partner into someone he cannot be.

The book concludes by suggesting a relationship to a man with Asperger’s is more likely to be successful if he will REACH. This stands for:

• REceive an official diagnosis
• Acknowledge he has Asperger’s
• Commit to the relationship
• Help – seek help and counselling

The book is concise, well written, and an invaluable reference to women who are struggling in a marriage or dating relationship with an Asperger’s man.

22 Things a Woman Must Know if she Loves a Man with Asperger’s Syndrome by Rudy Simone, Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2009 

Asperger’s Syndrome and Criminal Behaviour

People with Asperger’s often have a highly developed sense of right and wrong and see the world as black and white rather than in shades of grey. In spite of this, they may commit criminal offences and end up in trouble. The most common causes of criminal behaviour in a person with Asperger’s are as follows:

•  People with Asperger’s syndrome are generally emotionally immature and may carry grudges for years. The desire for revenge may eventually provoke a criminal act.

•  Asperger’s syndrome people frequently have a special interest and may steal to add to their collection of treasured objects.

•  Poor social skills and social understanding is a large part of Asperger’s syndrome and may lead to inappropriate sexual behaviour or touching.

A man with Asperger’s was arrested following the earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand as he had entered damaged properties to take light fittings. Distraught family members explained that the theft was due to his special interest and obsession with old light switches, bulbs and electrical fittings. The news reports can be read here and here.

An article that looks more fully at Asperger's syndrome and criminal behaviour is available by clicking here.

Suitable Jobs for People with Asperger's Syndrome

People with Asperger’s syndrome have specific strengths and weaknesses – just as neurotypical people do. It is important to look at these when considering what type of employment to look for as some jobs are suited to Aspie personalities while others are definitely not. Here is a Youtube clip with some wise advice on what type of employment may be best for an adult with Asperger’s.



These links will take you to articles that discuss more fully the types of work that Aspies may do well at - and what they should look for in a work place and employer.

Satisfying Careers for People with High Functioning Autism

Asperger's Occupations: Embarking on a Successful Career

Asperger's Syndrome in Teenagers

Teenage years are difficult at the best of times and Asperger's syndrome can complicate matters further. Teens are social by nature and tend to hang around in groups. These groups often have their own dress code and social standards, and may be quite cruel to those on the fringes. Teens with Asperger's can be helped and parents should make every effort to assist them as far as possible. If a child with Asperger's can make one friend and keep them during their teenage years, they will find life becomes a little easier.

Dating is another area that may be problematic to Asperger's teens. Some are simply not interested and others may desire a relationship but are immature and vulnerable. A sound sex education is important and youngsters should be taught about appropriate and inappropriate behaviour before they are allowed to date.

Here are some links to articles that give advice about Asperger's syndrome and teenagers:

The Challenges Facing Teenagers with Asperger's

Social Support for Teens with Asperger's

Social Skills for Asperger's Teens

Facts about Asperger's Dating

Facts about Teenagers with Asperger's