Phone: (02) 9637 9998

 

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Learning Discoveries - Psychological Services

Asperger’s Syndrome

Asperger Syndrome (AS) is one of the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) or Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) which are a spectrum of psychological conditions.

Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) differs from other autism spectrum disorder by its:
-  later onset
-  relatively well preserved language and cognitive development.
-  the disorder manifestation can range from mild to severe.

While language development appears normal, individuals with Asperger’s tend to have significant difficulties in social interaction, communication, an inability to make friends, impaired emotional intonation and gesturing, pedantic monologues and the appearance of having a lack of empathy with others. Coupled with a restricted repertoire of interests e.g. rail and air time tables and repetitive patterns of behaviour.

Hence, those with Asperger’s Syndrome are often viewed as eccentric or odd which is due to their
“high degree of functionality” and can easily become victims of teasing and bullying. The exact cause of
Asperger’s Syndrome is unknown, although research supports the likelihood of a genetic basis and yet brain imaging techniques have not identified a clear common pathology.

What we do know is that the main features of Asperger’s Syndrome disorder become obvious during early childhood remain constant throughout life, although adaptation and degree of actual disability vary.
Asperger’s Syndrome is rarely recognised before the age of three and is more common in boys than in girls.

There is no magic bullet or quick fix and interventions are aimed at improving symptoms and function.
The mainstay of management is behavioural therapy, focusing on specific deficits to address poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness. Most individuals improve over time, but difficulties with communication, social adjustment and independent living, can and often do continue into adulthood.

For more information or to make an appointment please send an email or contact us on (02) 9637 9998 during business hours.

Papers by Rosemary
Asperger’s Syndrome – What Is It?
Asperger’s Syndrome

Further Reading Suggestions
Autism and Autistic Spectrum Disorders – ASD
Pervasive Developmental Disorders – PDD

Australian Links
Asperger’s Services Australia
Autism and Asperger’s Support Group Inc
Dr Tony Attwood

International Links
OASIS @ MAAP

International Classification Manuals
American Psychiatric Association – DSM-IV
Word Health Organisation – ICD-10

Rosemary Boon

Registered Psychologist

M.A. (Psych),
Grad. Dip. Ed. Studies (Sch. Counsel),
Grad Dip. Ed. B Sc, Dip. Nut.
MAPS, AACNEM, ATMS, ISNR, ANSA

Practice Appointment Times

For an appointment please contact the clinic on:

(02) 9637 9998

All consultations and assessments are by
appointment only. Please phone during business
hours to make an appointment.

Provider No. 2582331F ATMS No. 20831

Contact Details

Telephone: (02) 9637 9998
Email: Learning Discoveries
Fax: (02) 9637 8799
Postal Address: PO Box 9047 Harris Park NSW 2150
ABN: 30 221 765 539
DISCLAIMER: The information contained within this website does not constitute medical advice or diagnosis and is intended for education and information purposes only. It was current at the time of publication and every effort is made to keep the site up to date. The information contained herein includes both psychological and non psychological interventions. The delivery of psychological services requires a medical referral whilst non psychological services do not. Each person is an individual and has a unique psychological profile, biochemistry, developmental and social history. As such, advice will not be given over the internet and recommendations and interventions within this website cannot be taken as a substitute for a thorough medical or allied health professional assessment or diagnosis.