Symptoms of Asperger Syndrome

Children, as well as adults with Asperger’s Syndrome experience a wide variety of symptoms. While some may face minor issues that does not affect their everyday lives, others will struggle to function in academic, social, and workplace environments. Knowing the symptoms can help parents get an accurate diagnosis.

Symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome

Children with Asperger or level 1 autism may display some of these traits:

1. Difficulty with social and communication skills. They be not be able to do simple things like read body language, understand sarcasm, etc.

Common symptoms of Asperger’s that may impact social interaction or communication include:

• Problems making or maintaining friendships
• Isolation or minimal interaction in social situations
• Poor eye contact or the tendency to stare at others
• Trouble interpreting gestures
• Problems expressing empathy, controlling emotions etc.

2. They may also have difficulty with:
   • Changes in routines
   • Talking or thinking about topics that are not of particular interest
   • Imagining what other people are thinking or feeling

3. Kids with Asperger’s typically exhibit normal to above-average intelligence. While some excel academically, others may struggle. Some common cognitive traits in people with Asperger’s include:

• A superior rote memory
• Ability to understand technical or factual information
• Trouble absorbing abstract information

4. Children with Asperger’s may appear clumsy or awkward. They might have trouble with simple activities such as catching ball or swinging on monkey bars at playground. They might experience physical symptoms such as:

• Delay in motor skills
• Awkward movements
• Problems with coordination
• Sensitivity to loud noises, odors, clothing or food textures etc.

It is important to note that people with Asperger’s are not lacking in emotions and can be very empathetic. They can also be very emotional, highly sensitive, and can also easily be moved to anger, joy, frustration, as well as enthusiasm. Some of them are also creative and innovative.

A child who has the traits as described above, and is also able to function comfortably in his daily life may not be diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. Psychologists, psychiatrists, and other practitioners with specific experience of diagnosing high-functioning autism in kids may be able to recommend therapies such as social skills coaching, speech therapy, occupational therapy etc. Many people feel that there so no need to do anything about Asperger Syndrome. But if you think it is getting in the way of their everyday life, it is better to see a professional about it.