How to diagnose asperger's

Symptoms, Tests, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

When you meet someone who has Asperger's syndrome, you might notice two things right off. They're just as smart as other folks, but they have more trouble with social skills. They also tend to have an obsessive focus on one topic or perform the same behaviors again and again.

Doctors used to think of Asperger's as a separate condition. But in 2013, the newest edition of the standard book that mental health experts use, called The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), changed how it's classified.

Today, Asperger's syndrome is technically no longer a diagnosis on its own. It is now part of a broader category called autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This group of related disorders shares some symptoms. Even so, lots of people still use the term Asperger's.

The condition is what doctors call a "high-functioning" type of ASD. This means the symptoms are less severe than other kinds of autism spectrum disorders.

The DSM-5 also includes a new diagnosis, called social pragmatic communication disorder, which has some symptoms that overlap with Asperger's. Doctors use it to describe people who have trouble talking and writing, but have normal intelligence.

Symptoms

They start early in life. If you're a mom or dad of a kid who has it, you may notice that they can't make eye contact. You may also find that your child seems awkward in social situations and doesn't know what to say or how to respond when someone talks to them.

They may miss social cues that are obvious to other folks, like body language or the expressions on people's faces. For instance, they may not realize that when somebody crosses their arms and scowls, they're angry.

Another sign is that your child may show few emotions. They may not smile when they're happy or laugh at a joke. Or they may speak in a flat, robotic kind of way.

If your child has the condition, they may talk about themselves most of the time and zero in with a lot of intensity on a single subject, like rocks or football stats. And they might repeat themselves a lot, especially on a topic that they're interested in. They might also do the same movements over and over.

They also may dislike change. For instance, they may eat the same food for breakfast every day or have trouble moving from one class to another during the school day.

How You Get a Diagnosis

If you notice signs in your child, see your pediatrician. They can refer you to a mental health expert who specializes in ASDs, like one of these:

Psychologist. They diagnose and treat problems with emotions and behavior.

Pediatric neurologist. They treat conditions of the brain.

Developmental pediatrician. They specialize in speech and language issues and other developmental problems.

Psychiatrist. They have expertise in mental health conditions and can prescribe medicine to treat them.

The condition is often treated with a team approach. That means you might see more than one doctor for your child's care.

The doctor will ask questions about your child's behavior, including:

What symptoms do they have, and when did you first notice them?
When did your child first learn to speak, and how do they communicate?
Are they focused on any subjects or activities?
Do they have friends, and how do they interact with others?

Then they'll observe your child in different situations to see firsthand how they communicate and behave.

Treatment

Every child is different, so there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Your doctor might need to try a few therapies to find one that works.

Treatments can include:

Social skills training. In groups or one-on-one sessions, therapists teach your child how to interact with others and express themselves in more appropriate ways. Social skills are often best learned by modeling after typical behavior.

Speech-language therapy. This helps improve your kid's communication skills. For example, they'll learn how to use a normal up-and-down pattern when they speak rather than a flat tone. They'll also get lessons on how to keep up a two-way conversation and understand social cues like hand gestures and eye contact.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It helps your child change their way of thinking, so they can better control their emotions and repetitive behaviors. They'll be able to get a handle on things like outbursts, meltdowns, and obsessions.

Parent education and training. You'll learn many of the same techniques your child is taught so you can work on social skills with them at home. Some families also see a counselor to help them deal with the challenges of living with someone with Asperger's.

Applied behavior analysis. It's a technique that encourages positive social and communication skills in your child -- and discourages behavior you'd rather not see. The therapist will use praise or other "positive reinforcement" to get results.

Medicine. There aren't any drugs approved by the FDA that specifically treat Asperger's or autism spectrum disorders. Some medications, though, can help with related symptoms like depression and anxiety. Your doctor may prescribe some of these:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Antipsychotic drugs
Stimulant medicines

With the right treatment, your child can learn to control some of the social and communication challenges they face. They can do well in school and go on to succeed in life.

Tips for Parenting A Child With Autism

Written by Debra Fulghum Bruce, PhD

Medically Reviewed by Neha Pathak, MD on September 28, 2021

As a parent, you’ve probably spent a lot of time thinking about your child’s future. Even more so if they have an autism spectrum disorder, or ASD diagnosis.

Apart from the medical care and therapies that you may line up to help your son or daughter, there are simple, everyday things that make a difference.

Focus on the positive. Just like anyone else, children with autism spectrum disorder often respond well to positive reinforcement. That means when you praise them for the behaviors they’re doing well, it will make them (and you) feel good.

Be specific, so that they know exactly what you liked about their behavior. Find ways to reward them, either with extra playtime or a small prize like a sticker.

Also, as you would with anyone -- on the spectrum or not -- prize your child for who they are. As a parent, loving your child for who they are is key.

Stay consistent and on schedule. People on the spectrum like routines. Make sure they get consistent guidance and interaction, so they can practice what they learn from therapy.

This can make learning new skills and behaviors easier, and help them apply their knowledge in different situations. Talk to their teachers and therapists and try to align on a consistent set of techniques and methods of interaction so you can bring what they’re learning home.

Put play on the schedule. Finding activities that seem like pure fun, and not more education or therapy, may help your child open up and connect with you.

Give it time. You’ll likely try a lot of different techniques, treatments, and approaches as you figure out what’s best for your child. Stay positive and try not to get discouraged if they don’t respond well to a particular method.

Take your child along for everyday activities. If your child’s behavior is unpredictable, you may feel like it’s easier not to expose them to certain situations. But when you take them on everyday errands like grocery shopping or a post office run, it may help them get them used to the world around them.

Get support. Whether online or face-to-face, support from other families, professionals, and friends can be a big help. Create a village of friends and family who understand your child's diagnosis. Friendships may be difficult, and your child will need support in maintaining those friendships. Support groups can be a good way to share advice and information and to meet other parents dealing with similar challenges. Individual, marital, or family counseling can be helpful, too. Think about what might make your life a little easier, and ask for help.

Look into respite care. This is when another caregiver looks after your child -- inside your home, outside of it, or both -- for a period of time to give you a short break. You’ll need it, especially if your child has intense needs due to ASD. This can give you a chance to do things that restore your own health and that you enjoy, so that you come back home ready to help.

You can identify or form your respite support team using these methods:

Ask your friends, family, and other parents you know for support connections you might not have thought about.
Check with your child’s doctors, therapists, and teachers for ideas or referrals. For instance, a teacher’s aide you really like might enjoy babysitting in their free time.
You can also post notices for childcare help in newspapers and online, local religious communities, and at colleges and universities near you. Be sure to check all references carefully.
Join a support group for parents of autistic children. Find out what works for others. You can find self-help communities by calling a local autism support center or looking online.

Take care of yourself. As a caregiver, you need to keep your body and your mind in tip-top shape so you can face the challenges that crop up from day to day. This means slowing down and looking for ways to take care of yourself so you’ll have plenty of you (physically, mentally, and emotionally) to go around.

Cut your stress. Parents of kids with ASD often face more stress than those who deal with other disabilities. If left unchecked, caregivers can face breakdowns in relationships and even psychological disorders. Stress can affect your health, too. Stay organized to help yourself avoid getting overwhelmed. This means finding time in your day just for yourself. Some important and even fun ways to do that include:

Pinpoint the real causes of your stress. If you feel overwhelmed, break down the major issues you’re facing into easier bites. You’ll feel better, and you’ll have a plan.
Meditation may help, too. Pay attention to your thoughts and the way you talk to yourself. It’ll help you weed out useless worries.
Exercise. You don’t need to go to the gym. Walk, work in the garden, swim, even dance in the kitchen. These are easy, effective ways to get some exercise.
- If you want some adult company, take an exercise class. It’s a great way to recharge your batteries and meet new people.
Get some ZZZs. When you need to recharge your body and mind, you can’t beat the power of a good night’s sleep. If you need extra help winding down, meditate or do relaxation exercises. That can help your body get ready for rest.
Get creative with your food. You likely spend lots of energy making sure your child eats nutritious meals. What about you? Spice up your personal menu by trying different fruits, veggies, and cuisines. Scope out new recipes to keep things interesting. And eat on a set schedule each day. It’ll help you keep your energy up and your system on track.

Get balance in your life. This is the key not only to facing life's challenges, but also keeping a high quality of life. Your whole family will benefit. Book time in your weekly calendar for fun and socializing. Try these tips to add balance to your busy days:

Find your friends. Yes, you’re the parent of a special-needs child. But you’re a person, too. Remembering that you have your own identity makes you a better parent. Take time to reconnect and laugh with your friends. You’ll be glad you did.
Take up old hobbies. Track down your knitting needles, dust off the piano, or get out the golf clubs. Try new activities that catch your eye.
Take five every day. A few extra minutes first thing in the morning can center you and set the tone for the whole day. Gather your thoughts, take a long, warm shower, or jot some notes in a journal.
Make it quick. Can your partner or other family members take over parenting duties for a bit? A quick walk around the block or short drive to the store -- by yourself -- will give you some much-needed time to yourself.

How to Identify Asperger's Syndrome in Adults: Key Features

Common Signs and Symptoms of Asperger's Syndrome

Asperger's Syndrome is one of the Autism Spectrum Disorders with milder symptoms than those of autism. People may exhibit only some of these or all of the characteristics.

Social symptoms that may affect how a person interacts or communicates with others include:

Problems with the establishment or maintenance of friendly relations
isolation or minimum interaction in social situations
Poor visual contact or a tendency to closely look at the others
Problems with gestures
9000 , irony and sarcasm
Unacceptable behavior or strange manners
Empathy deficiency, problems with expressing sympathy, control of emotions or expressing feelings
Lack of common sense
A tendency to a one -way conversation (prefer to talk about themselves)
Passion for certain topics
Interpretation of information literally
Following a strict schedule or routine

An adult or child with Asperger's may not show all of these signs, but is generally prone to social difficulties.

For example, a person with Asperger's may talk obsessively about one particular subject. Obsessing over different types of birds, sports statistics, or your own personality is a good example of this.

He may not understand when someone feels uncomfortable, offended, or disinterested. Since he does not always recognize social cues, he may speak loudly at the wrong time or place. Others may interpret these symptoms as bad manners or simply rude behavior.

Problems with language and speech. Unlike other autism spectrum disorders, a person with Asperger's usually does not experience speech delays. But it does have some language features. From the outside, the speech image of a person with Asperger's syndrome may seem unusual:

Scripted, formal or "robotic" type of conversation
Lack of intonation, voice modulation
Monotone or rhythmic, loud speech
Problems using the meaning of words in a social context
Repetition or intrusive speech

A person with Asperger's usually has a strong vocabulary and good grammar skills, but may be unable to use language correctly in social situations .

Cognitive features. Typically, children and adults with Asperger's Syndrome have normal to above average intelligence. While some excel academically, others may struggle. Some common cognitive features of people with Asperger's Syndrome include:

Excellent mechanical memory
Ability to understand technical or actual information
Problems with the absorption of abstract information
Ability to see details tendency to concentrate, which can lead to a missing “General Picture”
Independence of thought

Physical symptoms. Adults with Asperger's syndrome may experience physical symptoms such as:

Clumsy movements
Problems with coordination
Sensitivity to loud noises, smells, clothing, or food textures

They may appear clumsy or clumsy. They may have trouble with simple activities such as catching a ball. But some don't have motor problems.

How to recognize the syndrome?

Typically, a child with Asperger's Syndrome begins to experience difficulties as early as preschool age - it is difficult for him to follow the rules and instructions, and he differs from other children in facial expressions, movements and speech. In addition, at this age there is a difficulty in the ability to put oneself in the place of another or to assess the consequences of one's actions. He experiences very great difficulties in establishing contacts, and it is difficult for him to ask for help.

As teenagers with Asperger's syndrome grow up, they drop out of social life. They do not understand the forms of social communication, and they have little or no common interests with their peers. In addition, they are perfectionists in everything they do, they do everything much more carefully than others, and do not accept criticism. All this all the more does not contribute to socialization and reduces emotional contact.

By adulthood, the characteristics of the syndrome have developed to such a level that people with Asperger's syndrome often prefer to live alone. Social communication is still a big problem for them, and any need to move away from the typical behavior pattern is stressful. They also have an increased tendency to immerse themselves in certain subjects or hobbies. Adults find it difficult to express emotions and remain unusual in speech and motor skills. Unlike people with autism, people with Asperger's can live on their own, with or without an escort.

Does Asperger's cause aggressive behavior?

Many parents wonder if Asperger's Syndrome is associated with aggressive behavior. The answer does not seem clear.

Several high-profile massacres, including the 2007 Virginia Tech shooting, the 2012 Newtown, Connecticut massacre, and the 2018 Parkland, Florida massacre, were allegedly committed by men with an autism spectrum disorder.

Aggression and violence among people with autism spectrum disorders are reactive, not pre-planned and premeditated. For example, children with autism may resort to violence if they are sick or frustrated or unable to communicate how they feel.

''Aspergers'' are rather peaceful people, they are not so much aggressive as naive. And their naivete is easy to use with malicious intent. And this is happening. The syndrome makes Aspergers vulnerable to communication deficits. In life, they often face ridicule or bullying, which can cause a desire for revenge.

Although Asperger's Syndrome can provoke aggressive behavior, most studies do not show a specific link between violent crime and autism alone. Some research suggests that other psychiatric comorbidities may explain aggressive behavior in people with autism.

Researchers continue to study this connection and hope to gain more information about the role that Asperger's syndrome and other mental illnesses play in violent crime.

Sometimes Asperger's have special talents

Many people with Asperger's see their symptoms as a gift, they have special talents and abilities. Some positive qualities that distinguish people with Asperger's include:

High IQ
The ability to focus on something intensively and for a long time
wonderful mechanical memory
A unique special sense of humor
High validity of justice and honesty

There are many adults with this disorder, which are with this disorder that are that are successful lawyers, doctors, artists, writers, professors and educators. Among the famous people in history retrospectively rated as ''Aspergers'': Benjamin Franklin, Napoleon Bonaparte, scientists Albert Einstein and Isaac Newton, artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci, composer Ludwig van Beethoven, musician Elvis Presley, Microsoft founder Bill Gates.

In fact, some people with Asperger's are offended by the notion that their symptoms need to be "treated" or "cured."

Asperger's Syndrome: Diagnosis and Care

No two people with Asperger's Syndrome are the same. The disorder manifests itself in different ways. Some have only minor problems, while others face serious difficulties.

In addition, since Asperger's syndrome is now classified under the broad diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, some symptoms are no longer recognized as exclusively Asperger's symptoms, but rather "belong to the spectrum". This change was included in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) in 2013.

Key takeaway for parents: If your child develops any unusual signs or symptoms that may indicate that he or she has an autism spectrum disorder, see a professional. It can provide accurate and fast diagnosis. The sooner children are diagnosed, the sooner they can begin effective treatment to help them cope better.

American scientists have found that the hormone oxytocin increases social intelligence in autistic people. Perhaps this is one of the medicinal ways of better awareness and warming of emotions, which means changing the quality of social interaction.

The diagnosis of ''Asperger's'' is not a sentence for imprisonment in one's inner world. And here everyone must find their own way. You can develop extraversion by studying other people and using modeled behavior. Work on overcoming the social dysfunctions of Asperger's Syndrome should take on the character of a process and turn into a positive development.

Master of Psychology, Clinical Psychologist, Member of EABCT and AKPP, Family Therapist, Master of Brief Systemic Therapy (Mental Research Institute, California), Schema Therapist, EMDR Therapist, author of trainings and seminars.

Photo: Getty Images

How to Diagnose Asperger's Syndrome - Psychotherapist Services

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How to Diagnose Asperger's Syndrome : Asperger's Syndrome is also a severely limited social developmental disorder characterized by a general developmental disability characterized by stereotyped, repetitive repertoire of interests and activities. The initial diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome will require a consultation with a psychotherapist. As an additional examination, the doctor may prescribe:

Brain MRI
electroencephalography (EEG).

Which doctor treats Asperger's syndrome: If you have symptoms of Asperger's syndrome, you should first consult a neurologist or psychologist.

Although Asperger's Syndrome is no longer an official diagnosis, it belongs to a group of neurodevelopmental disorders known as autism spectrum disorder. The main features of Asperger's Syndrome include:

difficulties with social interaction
repetitive behavior
abnormal stubbornness in opinions and beliefs
focus on rules and routine.

Some autistic patients develop a condition called high-functioning autism. They need less support than other people with autism. This category usually includes patients with Asperger's syndrome. Asperger's syndrome is not associated with a delay in language skills or cognitive development, so patients can usually manage daily activities on their own. In other words, their needs usually do not prevent them from getting an education in the regular classroom or getting a job.

Differences between Asperger's syndrome and autism

The main difference between Asperger's syndrome and autism is that patients with the syndrome tend to:

experience milder symptoms of autism
have normal language skills.

Symptoms of Asperger's Syndrome

Some of the symptoms of Asperger's Syndrome include:

hyperfocus. Many patients develop excessive focus on a narrow topic of interest. For children, it can be an all-consuming interest in things like train schedules or dinosaurs. This interest can fuel one-sided conversations with peers and adults
problems with recognition of social signals. People with Asperger's Syndrome may not recognize intonations and hints, and for this reason they have difficulty with social interaction. They may also find it difficult to know when to lower their voice in certain places
difficulty in recognizing someone else's facial expressions. Many autistic people have difficulty recognizing and understanding other people's feelings. They may have difficulty interpreting body language, avoid eye contact, speak in a monotone, and show little facial expressions
problems with motor skills and coordination. Some children with Asperger's syndrome may find basic motor skills such as running or walking difficult. They may lack coordination.

Causes of Asperger's Syndrome

Brain changes occur across the spectrum of autistic disorders. Experts have identified several potential factors that may contribute to the development of autism, including genetics and exposure to environmental toxins such as chemicals or viruses. Boys are more likely to be diagnosed with autism.

How Asperger's is diagnosed

A mental health professional can help identify a patient's support needs by assessing key areas, including:

language skills
social interaction
facial expression when talking
interest in socializing with others
motor coordination and motor skills.

Some patients on the autism spectrum may initially be diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or other neurodevelopmental disorders.

Treatment for Asperger's Syndrome

Many autistic patients, including those with Asperger's Syndrome, do not consider their condition to be a disability or any serious illness. In other words, Asperger's Syndrome, like autism, is not a disease requiring treatment. Early diagnosis can make it easier to get the support you need to improve social interaction and daily activities. Patients with Asperger's syndrome, of course, may have mental disorders such as anxiety or depression. Treating these mental health symptoms can go a long way towards improving your overall well-being.

Medication

There is no cure for Asperger's Syndrome, but some patients may use medication to treat symptoms of common conditions that occur together, namely depression and anxiety. The patient may be prescribed:

antidepressants. Antidepressants can relieve symptoms of depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, a common type of antidepressant, may also be helpful for symptoms of anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder
anti-anxiety drugs. Anti-anxiety drugs may reduce anxiety symptoms
antipsychotic drugs. Some doctors may prescribe them for irritability and agitation.

Therapy

Various therapeutic approaches improve communication skills, emotional regulation and social interaction:

Cognitive behavioral therapy. A type of psychotherapy that allows you to identify and change negative and useless patterns of thought and behavior. This therapy can help manage anxiety, depression, and other personal or day-to-day problems

speech therapy. A speech therapist examines and solves language and communication problems. A speech therapist can help patients with Asperger's syndrome with voice control

social skills training. Social skills programs address issues that make social interaction difficult

physical and occupational therapy. Improve fine motor skills and coordination. Physical therapy can also help children with Asperger's syndrome cope with sensory issues.

Other potentially helpful strategies include:

melatonin. Sleep disturbances, which are common in children with Asperger's syndrome, can increase anxiety, depression, and irritability. Preparations containing melatonin allow removing negative conditions

music and art therapy. Music therapy (also called sound therapy) and art therapy can help with communication, emotional, and social problems associated with Asperger's syndrome.

massage. Massage therapy may provide short-term relief from anxiety or sensory symptoms in some autistic patients if they feel comfortable being touched.

Long-term treatment options for a child with Asperger's Syndrome

Early diagnosis can help identify key support needs and learn skills to manage social interactions and other aspects of everyday life. Most adults with Asperger's Syndrome work and live independently.

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