What do I need to know about asperger's disorder(In children)?

Question

my 5 year old brother was diagnosed with it and I want to learn more about it

Answer 1

Asperger syndrome
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Asperger's syndrome (also referred to as Asperger's syndrome, Asperger's disorder, Asperger's, or AS) is a condition on the Autistic spectrum. It manifests in various ways and can have both positive and negative effects. It is typically characterized by issues with social and communication skills. Due to the mixed nature of its effects, it remains controversial among researchers, physicians, and people who are diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome.

A minority of clinicians dispute the view that Asperger's syndrome is differentiated from other autistic spectrum disorders. Instead they refer to Asperger's as high-functioning autism (HFA). [1] These researchers argue that the key difference between Asperger's and Autism - normal early development and lack of any language delay - is a difference in degree and not kind. Early in life people with AS can have learning disabilities. However, IQ tests may show superior intelligence or very high memory capacity in diagnosed individuals.[2][3]

The diagnosis of AS is complicated by the lack of standardized diagnostic criteria. Instead, several different screening instruments and sets of diagnostic criteria are used. AS is often not identified in early childhood, and many individuals are not diagnosed until they are adults. Assistance for core symptoms of AS consists of therapies that apply behaviour management strategies and address poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness. Many individuals with AS can adopt strategies for coping and do lead fulfilling lives - being gainfully employed, having successful relationships, and having families. In most cases, they are aware of their differences and can recognize if they need any support to maintain an independent life.[4]

Answer 2

To research sites has been suggested by others...
I don't disagree with that.

But some basics.
Asperger's usually means at least of average intelligence, and frequently very bright...
Don't be fooled by a lack of communication or lack of interest in what other people might normally be interested in.

It may mean poor reading skills or language, or incredible reading and verbal skills. It varies a lot.

It usually means a preference for repeated activities and order, and an aversion to change and uncertainty.
"Hey, let's do something new!" *may* be well received, but it's not so likely to be welcomed as with most children
(or even with me, at 50)

It will often mean a weakness in picking up social clues and expectations just by observation. "Hints" are not a good idea.
(But neither are emotional outbursts) for getting things across. Clear and logical is the language that's more likely to work.
As I told them at work: "Yes, I'll follow all the unwritten rules as soon as you write them down for me."

Things outside areas of interest do tend to be neglected.
This can include personal hygiene. That's probably going to be mainly your parents' job, but again don't hint, or rant. It won't help.

Most Aspies are sensitive to noise/light/smells/textures to some degree. It varies a lot. Just because it seems OK to you doesn't mean it is to him.
A dim quiet place to retreat to and regain "balance" can be really valuable.

One of the biggest problems faced as folk with Asperger's grow up is an insistence that we should be more "normal", as though that would in some way make us happier.
There's a balance between helping us cope with the social contact that is necessary to navigate the big world that's out there, and helping us make a success of the way we'd like to be.

Test question to see if you can get inside an Aspie skull:
"Why should I wear an Armani suit
just to impress the sort of people
who are impressed by the wearing
of an Armani suit?"

50-year-old with Asperger's
diagnosed at the age of 48.
my e-mail is open, should you wish to contact me.

Answer 3

Aspergers is high functioning autism. To learn more about it search out the National Institute of Mental Health and Aspergers Disorder on your tool bar.

Answer 4

Research it as much as possible. It looks like Christine has given you a good start. See if you can find a group or message board for families with children who have Asperger's. They will be able to give you personal experiences and may be able to help you with real life situations. My 6 year old nephew has it and it can be very trying. Be patient with your brother. Good luck!

Answer 5

Google it please. Here you will only get opinions from people who know someone & each will think they know it all. Every child IS different. There are many sites available, I suggest you try there first.