Asperger syndrome

Posted By: Cean Psiquiatras

Asperger syndrome (AS), also known as Asperger's, is a developmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.

Asperger syndrome is one of several previously separate subtypes of autism that were folded into the single diagnosis autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with the publication of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual in 2013.

Affected children and adults have difficulty with social interactions and exhibit a restricted range of interests and/or repetitive behaviors. Motor development may be delayed, leading to clumsiness or uncoordinated motor movements. Compared with those affected by other forms of ASD, however, those with Asperger syndrome do not have significant delays or difficulties in language or cognitive development. Some even demonstrate precocious vocabulary ( often in a a highly specialized field of interest).

The following behaviors are often associated with Asperger syndrome. However, they are seldom all present in any one individual and vary widely in degree:

- Limited or inappropiate social interactions.

- Robotic or repetitive speech.

- Challenges with nonverbal communication coupled with average to above average verbal skills.

- Tendency to discuss self rather than others.

- Inability to understand social/emotional issues or nonliteral phrases.

- Lack of eye contact or reciprocal conversation.

- Obsession with specific, often unusual topics.

- One-sided conversations.

- Awkward movements and/or mannerisms.

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