Asperger Syndrome

• Asperger Syndrome Overview
• Asperger Syndrome Causes
• Asperger Syndrome Symptoms
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Asperger Syndrome Treatment
• Medical Treatment
• Medications
• Other Therapy
• Next Steps
• Outlook
• For More Information
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• Synonyms and Keywords
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• Related Asperger's Syndrome articles:
  Asperger's Syndrome - on WebMD

Asperger Syndrome Overview

Asperger syndrome, also known as Asperger disorder or AS, is a pervasive developmental disorder (a spectrum of behavioral disorders including autism). Asperger syndrome is characterized by an inability to understand how to interact socially and a pattern of repetitive behaviors and/or restricted interests. Unlike persons with autism, those with Asperger syndrome do not show a marked delay in language development or cognitive development. Asperger syndrome is commonly recognized in children after the age of 3 years and is more frequently diagnosed in boys.
 
Individuals with Asperger syndrome have serious impairments in their social and communication skills, including poor nonverbal communication. However, many individuals have good cognitive and verbal skills, and typically have normal to superior intelligence. Many have excellent rote memory and become intensely interested in one or two subjects.  
 
Children with Asperger syndrome are typically educated in the mainstream setting but usually require special education services. These children often have difficulty making friends and are often teased or bullied by their peers.