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What Is Asperger’s?

Asperger syndrome or Asperger’s syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder that is characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. Children or adults who suffer from it maintain linguistic and cognitive development, which makes it different from other autism spectrum disorders. Although not required for diagnosis, physical clumsiness and atypical use of language are frequently reported.

History of Asperger’s

There are many questions surrounding Asperger’s Syndrome, and at this point, there are few answers. It was labeled and defined in 1944, but it wasn’t until 50 years later that it became an official diagnosis. There are those who wonder if it is really distinguishable from high-functioning autism (HFA) and those who want to abolish the diagnosis all together.

Diagnosis

If you think your child might have Asperger’s Syndrome, take them to see a pediatrician. Depending on the severity of the autism, alternative education might be a possibility. There are hundreds of support groups and online facilities to get more information, as well as learn how other parents deal with their child’s Aspergers.