Asperger's Disorder

What is Asperger's Disorder?

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Client

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St. Ann's Home Kid

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Marcia Strasnick,
Primary classroom teacher

"I personally find it very gratifying to have the opportunity to work with the children at St. Ann's."
Marcia Spates
Housekeeper

Asperger’s Disorder, sometimes referred to as high-functioning Autism, is rapidly increasing as a diagnosis in children and adolescents, both in the U.S. and worldwide. Estimates are that as many as 20-25 out of every 10,000 children have Asperger’s Disorder. The disorder is seen in boys four times more often than girls. Each year, due to better diagnostic techniques and a wider range of conditions being included under Asperger’s Disorder, more and more children and adolescents are being diagnosed. Still a relatively new diagnosis (1994), there is no definitive, known cause of Asperger’s Disorder. Researchers believe that abnormalities in brain structures or functions, related to genetics, environment, or a combination of the two, may be the root cause. Children and adolescents with Asperger’s Disorder, often present with unique characteristics, habits, and abilities. They include:

♦ Impaired social interactions

♦ Repetitive routines

♦ Poor peer relationship development

♦ Below average non-verbal communication

♦ Limited eye contact

♦ Above average intelligence

♦ Narrow range of interests and preoccupations

♦ Sensory integration issues