a type of pervasive development disorder (pdd) considered to be on the autism spectrum high...
TRANSCRIPT
Asperger’s Syndrome or Disorder
• A type of pervasive development disorder (PDD)• Considered to be on the autism spectrum• High functioning autism, not affected by race,
region or socio-economic status.
• Psychiatrist from Vienna, Austria• 1944 behavior described as “autistic
psychopathy”• This pattern included a “lack of empathy, intense
absorption in a special interest, clumsy movements, little ability to form friendships and one-sided conversations.”• Opened a school for children with autistic
psychopathy• Exhibited features of the condition named after
him• Died in 1980 before his work was acknowledged
Hans Asperger
Asperger’s Syndrome
• Exact cause not known• Tends to run in families• Genetic disorder (passed from parent)• Frontal lobe and posterior cingulate gyrus
impaired
Symptoms• Problems with social
skills• Eccentric or repetitive behaviors• Unusual preoccupations• Can’t read people• Can’t understand humor• Monotone voice• Clumsy• ADHD• Sleep disorders
• Lack of eye contact• Few facial expressions• One sided long-winded conversations• Limited range of
interests• Communication
problems• No empathy• Skilled or talented in one area• Digestion problems
Treatments
• Abilify-treats irritability
• Luvox-treats depression
• Zyprexa-treats repetitive behaviors
• Risperdal-treats agitation
• Melatonin
• Ritalin-treats ADHD• Vitamin B-6• Magnesium• Vitamin C• Omega 3 fatty
acids• Gluten Free-Casein
Free Diets
Intervention Techniques• Structured education to meet child’s
needs• Behavior modification techniques• Speech, physical and occupational
therapy• Psychologists/Behavior Therapists• Family Therapy• Autism Schools• Parenting Classes
Resources for Families
Autism Assessment And Treatment CenterAutism Council of Utah
HOPE a Parent to Parent NetworkUtah Autism Research Program at U of U
Specialized Education Programming Services
Redwood Learning CenterCarmen Pingree School
Spectrum Academy
Asperger’s in General Education Classes
• Sensory Needs – Seat them away from distractions, avoid loud noises, give them calming objects or play soothing music.
• Hyper-focus – Let them show the class their area of expertise, help them envision their future and expand on their preferred subject.
• Poor Executive Function – Visual learners, may need graphic organizers and work charts to keep on task.
• Low Frustration Level – A time timer, have them run errands, write or draw about what frustrates them and give them little homework.
Coping and Support• Maintain a consistent schedule• Learn about your child and the disorder• Find a team of trusted professionals• Help others help your child• Help your child turn their obsession into
their passion• Find local support
Games and ActivitiesRace to the Finish Line – Straws and
cheese ball race trackPlay with Slime – Borax, water, PVA and
food coloringMarble Race – Marble building set and
marbles
Reference PageAitken, K. J. (2009). Dietary Interventions in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Philadelphia, PA: Jessica Kingsley PublishersGriffin, S., Sandler D. (2010). Motivate to Communicate! 300 Games and Activities for Your Child with Autism. Philadelphia, PA: Jessica Kingsley PublishersMyles, B. S., Southwick, J. (2005). Asperger Syndrome and Difficult Moments. Shawnee Mission, Kansas: Autism Asperger Publishing CompanyWhitman, T. L., Dewitt, N. (2011). Key Learning Skills for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. London, England: Jessica Kingsley Publishers(November 18, 2010). Asperger’s Syndrome. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aspergers-syndrome/DS00551/