Asperger Syndrome A Disorder On The Autism Spectrum

Ashley Knowles Dr. Chaviano ESE 309 Spring 2015 Asperger Syndrome Asperger syndrome, also known as, Asperger disorder is a disorder on the autism spectrum. Asperger syndrome is on the mild, or â€Å"high-functioning,† end. Many affected with Asperger’s learn to adjust and become very intelligent and live successful lives. In 1944, an Australian pediatrician named Hans Asperger observed four children who had difficulty integrating socially. The children lacked nonverbal communication skills, failed to demonstrate empathy with their peers, and were physically awkward. Their speech was either disjointed or overly formal and their obsessing interest in a specific topic dominated their conversations. Dr. Asperger called the condition â€Å"autistic†¦show more content†¦It appears likely that a combination of genetic variations and environmental factors influence the development of this complex condition. Asperger syndrome is a disorder of brain development. The differences in brain development that occur in Asperger syndrome appear to affect areas of the brain involved in thought, behavior, and emotions, such as prefrontal cortex, the amygdala, and the fusiform face area. People with Asperger’s have average or above-average intelligence. These people do not have a language delay as others do on parts of the autism spectrum. Their ability to carry on a conversation is often impaired by a tendency to take sarcasm or humorous statements literally. Body language is also often misunderstood as to what others may be feeling to the person with Asperger’s. These individuals may speak in a monotone voice, have unusual mannerisms, or choose unusual topics of conversation. Individuals with Asperger syndrome tend to develop an intense interest in a particular subject. The interest may be a traditional hobby or on an academic level. Often they are able to remember a large amount of details on their subject of interest. People with Asperger’s may have difficulty tolerating sensory stimuli such as noise or lights. Other features may include mild impairment of motor skills. Basic skills such as crawling or walking may be somewhat delayed. This physical clumsiness may lead to further social isolations. Signs and