Aspergers Syndrome Characteristics - Depression and Other Mental Health Issues

Dr. Asperger called the condition "autistic psychopathy" and described it as a personality disorder primarily marked by social isolation.

Asperger Syndrome Characteristics:

1. May move into the personal space of others, not recognizing body language, facial and verbal cues that he/she has transgressed

2. May not make direct eye contact

3. Lack of emotional reciprocity or empathy

4. Rigid and inflexible adherence to specific routines or rituals

5. Stereotyped and repetitive motor movements

6. Persistent preoccupation with parts of objects

7. Friends and new acquaintances may be acknowledged with tight and enthusiastic hugs instead of formal greetings like "Hi, how are you?"

8. May begin to talk about the latest topic of concern which is of interest only to themselves (e.g., train schedules), may be age inappropriate or boring but the person does not pick up on looks of disinterest or snickers from the group.

9. Speech and language peculiarities such as: stilted and formal language, voice too loud or monotone or hyperverbal.

10. Hypersensitivity to noises or smells

11. Cognitive abilities which are average or above average (They are often known as "little professors")

12. Difficulties with subjects that require inferential reasoning, abstract concepts, problem solving, extensive calculations or social judgements.

13. Fine motor problems which lead to poor penmanship and low writing motivation

14. Gross motor clumsiness which leads to poor skills in competitive sports and physical activities

15. Depression, frequent school absences, low school motivation due to being socially vulnerable and easy targets for teasing and bullying.

It is not uncommon for the child with Asperger's Syndrome to suffer from depression and other mental health issues. This may be a result of their disability, which results in poor social skills.

They want to fit into society, and have friends as any other child, but they don't know how to do that.

As they get older they become more aware of the differences between themselves and other children, and recognize that other children may not be too anxious to be their friend.

Monitoring the child's mood level and doing what you can to increase their social skills, including being part of a social skills group may alleviate some of this depression.

They will show most of the characteristics of anyone else with depression, such as lack of appetite, poor
sleeping patterns, lack of interest in preferred activities, aggression and anger.

Teach your child to communicate their feelings and if they show signs of depression, seek the help of a professional.

If necessary, medications can be an effective way to help them alleviate the symptoms of depression.

The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome is the definitive handbook for anyone affected by Asperger's syndrome (AS). It brings together a wealth of information on all aspects of the syndrome for children through to adults.

Drawing on case studies and personal accounts from Attwood's extensive clinical experience, and from his correspondence with individuals with AS, this book is both authoritative and extremely accessible.

Chapters examine:

* Causes and indications of the syndrome;

* The diagnosis and its effect on the individual;

* Theory of mind;

* The perception of emotions in self and others;

* Social interaction, including friendships;
long-term relationships;

* Teasing, bullying and mental health issues;

* The effect of AS on language and cognitive abilities, sensory sensitivity, movement and co-ordination skills;

* Career development.

There is also an invaluable frequently asked questions chapter and a section listing useful resources for anyone wishing to find further information on a particular aspect of AS, as well as literature and educational tools.

Essential reading for families and individuals affected by AS as well as teachers, professionals and employers coming in contact with people with AS, this book should be on the bookshelf of anyone who needs to know or is interested in this complex condition.

CLICK HERE and read inside: Asperger Syndrome Characteristics: The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome

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