Asperger’s is a syndrome in the autistic spectrum of developmental disorders. In a sense, it’s a mild form of autism. Symptoms can occur in major areas such as:

Social and Emotional Abilities

• the child lacks an understanding of how to play with other children
• avoids contact with other kids during unstructured time such as lunchtime or recess
• appears unaware of social conventions
• lacks empathy
• seems to expect others to automatically know their thoughts, experiences and opinions
• needs an excessive amount of reassurance
• shows distress out of proportion to the situation
• is not interested in competitive sports
• seems indifferent to peer pressure

Communication Skills

• Takes phrases literally that are not meant that way
• has an unusual tone of voice
• appears disinterested in your side of the conversation
• uses less eye contact than expected
• speech is overly precise
• when obviously confused, the child does not ask for clarification

Cognitive Skills

• reads primarily for information (such as encyclopedias and science books)
• has an exceptional long term memory
• other children are not included in the child’s imaginary play

Specific Interests

• is fascinated by one particular topic and develops an encyclopedic knowledge on the subject
• becomes unduly upset by changes in routine
• develops elaborate rituals or routines and becomes upset if these get interrupted

Movement Skills

• has poor coordination
• has an ood gait when running

Other symptoms

• unusual sensitivity to sounds and textures
• unusual distress when seeing certain objects
• unusual distress due to noisy, crowded places
• unusual facial grimaces or tics

The causes of Asperger’s are not known. There is some speculation that environmental contaminants can play a role. The treatment often involves participation in a communication group as well as using videotaping of the child. When such a child literally sees himself as others see him, he learns more about social behaviors which need to be changed. To get started on an evaluation / to test for Asperger’s, in the Chicago area, contact us at (630) 325-5300 x0.