Asperger’s Syndrome- Causes, Signs, Symptoms & Prevention

Asperger’s Syndrome is a mental disorder that governs human behaviour. A milder version of Autism, Asperger’s is a developmental disorder. It is characterised by difficulties in social interaction and with non-verbal communication. Hurting oneself, deliberately or unintentionally, isolating oneself or being obsessively interested in a particular field of study, are some characteristics associated with Asperger’s Syndrome.According to National Autistic Society, Asperger’s Syndrome could also lead to a state of confusion and anxiety. In contrast to Autistic Disorder, there are no significant delays in language and speech in Asperger’s. There are no major delays in cognitive development or in the development of age-appropriate self-help skills/adaptive behaviour (other than in social interaction) and curiosity about the environment in childhood.Asperger’s syndrome is a pervasive developmental disorder. As discussed, a person suffering from Asperger’s Syndrome has difficulty in communication and socialisation. There may also indulge in restricted, repetitive activities and interests.It has been found that Asperger’s Syndrome is more common in boys than in girls. The development is normal during the initial stages, but people who are suffering from Asperger’s Syndrome lack warmth in relationships. They spend much time pursuing narrow interests, and are clumsy at times. Although, this condition is referred to as autistic psychopathology, there is no general delay or retardation in language and cognitive development (such as reading or math skills). They often come across as eccentric and solitary.Asperger’s Syndrome Causes1. The exact causes of Asperger’s Syndrome are yet not known. Many studies say that it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect the brain's development. Some researches also suggest that environmental factors during the mother's pregnancy, like viral or bacterial infection or active or passive smoking, impact the child in her womb to cause Asperger's Syndrome.2. The social and behavioural difficulties have been linked with abnormalities in neural systems, which can be avoided. The condition is linked with heritability in families, thereby suggesting a genetic influence. It has been linked with structural abnormalities in the brain. There’s little evidence to suggest an environmental influence.3. It has also been suggested that older age of parents can contribute to the development of the condition, as well as to infections during pregnancy.Asperger’s Syndrome SymptomsThe symptoms of Asperger’s may appear at the age of three and can last for a person’s entire life. Some common signs and symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome are:1. Obsessive interestsA child affected with Asperger’s Syndrome is usually an expert in a particular field. It may include obsessive interest in models of different cars or bikes, trains and computers. Sometimes their obsession might seem strange to others. These interests can include obsessions for kitchen equipments and lawn mowers.People suffering from Asperger’s Syndrome are exceptionally knowledgeable in their area of interest. This is the reason they mostly indulge in conversations that are focussed on their interests.2. Difficulty in sensesPeople with Asperger’s Syndrome may also suffer from sensory problems. This means that they may have issues with any one of their senses like smell, sound, taste or touch. It would be either underdeveloped or stronger than usual. They may have different perceptions about loud noises, strong fragrances or smells, food textures, and bright lights.3. A distinct form of speechAsperger’s Syndrome may also cause problems with speech. There is no voice modulation, no rhythm and their tone is usually flat. Either they will speak too fast or too slow. People suffering from Asperger's may sound older than they actually are.4. They prefer social isolationA person with Asperger’s Syndrome desires to have friends and wants to indulge in social conversations. But as they lack communication skills and have challenges in social interactions, they prefer to be isolated. They seem uninterested in social gatherings and maintain distance from other people. Indulging in conversation with others is quite challenging for them because of their singular interest. Hence, making friends is often a problem with people suffering from Asperger’s.5. Social skills and communicationExpressing themselves in front of others is often difficult for people with Asperger's Syndrome. Understanding gestures and facial expressions is quite challenging too. They are not good at starting a conversation or ending a discussion. Understanding jokes or humorous conversations is beyond their ability.According to The Asperger's Association of New England, “People with Asperger’s Syndrome do not pick up much of the non-verbal social cues conveyed to them. They may simply not be aware of this information, while the cues that they do notice are commonly misinterpreted. This can result in frustratingly awkward social interactions and ineffective behavioural responses."7. Their set of rules and routines: People with Asperger's Syndrome often set their own rules and routines. They believe it creates lesser confusion and anxiety. They don’t appreciate any changes or alterations in their set of patterns. Any change in their routine can make them restless.According to a study, "These non-functional routines can be of critical importance to the child with Asperger's. Given a choice in clothing, the child might create what seems like a uniform that is worn day after day."Delay in learning motor skills: Learning motor skills like pedalling a bike, climbing, playing games, catching a ball or running are major challenges for people suffering from Asperger’s Syndrome. The way they walk is quite different and noticeable by others.Some other conditions: People with Asperger’s Syndrome are extremely active during the early stages of childhood. But when they reach adulthood, they may develop depression.Asperger’s Syndrome Prevention1. Asperger’s syndrome can be prevented by timely diagnosis and early intervention by the health experts. This is the best way to prevent behavioral and emotional complications related to this disorder.2. Behavioural modification and parental counselling may also help. There are standard guidelines for medical management through psychiatric medication to control emotional/behavioural problems.3. Also, mild stimulant medications that are provided to deal with restlessness, aggressiveness and attention deficit helps people suffering from Asperger's Syndrome. 4. Medication is often combined with family and group therapy, and occupational therapeutic interventions to enhance daily living in society. Behavioural treatment is aimed at modifying parents’ and teachers’ responses towards child’s difficulties. Treatment is aimed at providing a structured environment to the children with scope for contingency management.