Topics > Asperger’s Syndrome

Understanding

Aspergers is still a very controversial diagnosis without a definitive cause.  Many believe that it should be labeled high functioning autism and others believe it should not even be considered a spectrum disorder. Currently, most individuals with Aspergers are diagnosed between ages 5 and 11. Although many individuals with Aspergers demonstrate extreme exceptionalities or talent, many still struggle with basic social interaction and daily living skills.  A classic example is the teen who can take apart and put a computer back together independently, but is unable to shower on his own.     

An individual with Aspergers would wonder:  Why do people tell white lies and make niceties when they should be telling the truth?  What is sarcasm?  Why does telling someone the truth hurt their feelings? Why are people not interested in memorizing facts about our country and all of its Presidents?  Why are people bored by license plate numbers? What is the need for eye contact? Why do I have to attend to something I am not interested? 

If you still have difficulty understanding, spend some time reading stories written by teen and adults with Aspergers about their day to day experience and tactics for understanding and succeeding in social situations.