|
|
definition
Asperger's Syndrome (AS) is another PDD (or ASD)
which, like autism, affects communication skills, social interactions
and behavior. In the 1940s, at about the same time Dr. Leo Kanner
was documenting the condition he called "early infantile autism",
Hans Asperger, an Austrian psychiatrist, wrote about a similar pattern
of behavior he observed in some of his young male patients. What is
now referred to as Asperger's Syndrome is considered to be at the
high end of the autism continuum, although there is some debate as
to whether it should be thought of as a separate condition altogether.
More males than females are affected with both disorders. Difficulty
with understanding social situations and relating to one's environment
is also characteristic of both. However, by definition, individuals
with AS have average or above-average intelligence and their language
skills seem to develop normally during the preschool years. Although
those with AS may have continuing feelings of being disconnected
from their surroundings, many learn to use coping skills and become
successful and productive adults.
|