Does Your Child Have Aspergers Syndrome?
There is no definitive test to determine if a child has Aspergers Syndrome. However, certain patterns can usually indicate if a child is suffering from such a disorder.
Some of these patterns include difficulty or lack of social interaction as manifested by impaired non-verbal communication, inability to develop peer relationships and failure to respond to others emotionally.
Another sign or pattern that can indicate if a child has Aspergers Syndrome is repeated patterns of behavior or interest. There is usually an abnormal intensity of interest in very limited areas. A child with Aspergers can also be very particular with certain specific rituals that actually serve no purpose or function. There is also a persistent preoccupation with parts of objects.
Technically, Aspergers Syndrome is not a mental illness. Rather, it is more of a development disorder. It is, however, commonly associated with the following conditions:
-Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD
-Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD
-Bipolar Disorder
-Depression
-Generalized Anxiety Disorder
To date, there is yet no definitive cure or treatments for Aspergers Syndrome. But a child with AS can be given a chance at living a normal life by helping him cope with the three major symptoms of the disorder. These are poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines and physical clumsiness.
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