Asperger syndrome may be more noticeable when a child starts school. The following behaviours may be present in childhood or adulthood:
• Finding conversation difficult
• Not understanding concepts such as turn taking and sharing
• Showing a lack of empathy for how other people feel
• Seeming to be introverted and preferring to spend time alone
• Preferring routine and becoming upset when routine is disrupted
• Having little imagination
• Difficulty making friends
• Delayed developments of motor skills e.g. finding it hard to use cutlery
• Poor handwriting
• Understanding and being able to communicate, but misunderstanding elements of language such as changes in a person’s tone of voice
• Having very specific interests that other people may see as excessive or obsessive
• Having some sensitivity to noise, light etc
• Experiencing ‘meltdown’ when feeling overwhelmed
• Feeling anxious and displaying signs of anxiety
Diagnosis of Asperger syndrome
If you are concerned that you or your child may show signs of Asperger syndrome, it may help to discuss these with a GP. There is no cure for the condition, but having a diagnosis confirmed can help you get the right support going forwards. It may also help you understand any difficulties you or your child have, and find solutions.
The process of Asperger syndrome diagnosis can take some time and be quite tricky. It will often involve a range of healthcare professionals, your GP, school teachers, speech and language therapists and occupational therapists, who will assess your child and write a report about what they have found. The National Autistic Society provides a booklet on what to do after diagnosis.