Asperger's syndrome is a severe, pervasive developmental disorder usually diagnosed in childhood; however, more adults who seek out treatment for depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder are being diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes states that 2 out of 10,000 children have the disorder and boys are 3 to 4 times more likely to be diagnosed than girls. Asperger's syndrome symptoms vary from person to person and may change as a person gets older.
Childhood Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, a parent may first notice symptoms of Asperger's syndrome in childhood, especially when his child begins school. A child with Asperger's syndrome may struggle with social skills including starting conversations, reading body language and taking turns talking. He may lack eye contact and stare at others. He may not respond to another person comments or emotions and appears to lack empathy. Other children may label a child with Asperger's syndrome as "strange." It is common for a child with Asperger's syndrome to have only a few interests. Flat, monotone verbal communication is common and the child may use language considered advanced for his age. Interpreting humor and sarcasm may be difficult and often a child with Asperger's syndrome may take a joke literally. The child may lack motor coordination and be clumsy and awkward.
Symptoms In Teenage Years
Most symptoms of Asperger's persist through the teen years. A teen with Aspergers's may begin to learn the social skills he lacked, but still have a difficult time reading other people. A teen may invade the personal space of other people, have odd mannerisms that might make him prone to teasing and bullying and might talk about topics that he is passionate about but others view as odd. A teen with Asperger's syndrome may feel different from his peers and might start to isolate and avoid others. Depression and anxiety can occur.
Symptoms In Adults
Asperger's syndrome is a lifelong condition. An adult with Asperger's syndrome may have a better understanding of his condition. According to the University of Virginia's Department of Occupational therapy, many adults with Asperger's syndrome are able to live productive lives, live independently and hold professional careers. However, some adults will still struggle with empathy, social interaction, anxiety and depression.
