Young children generally respond well to affection, but some seem uninterested or unwilling to respond to parents or peers. While, to some degree, this may be normal, it also may be a symptom of a more serious neurological condition. Parents should consider the possibility of autism or autistic spectrum disorders in their children if they show a strong aversion to affection. This is especially important to consider in children who have language difficulties. Children with these problems should be evaluated by a medical professional, usually a pediatrician.
Normal Affection Aversion
Some degree of affection aversion may be considered normal. The so-called "terrible twos" represent an important phase of an infant's psychological development when the child learns to be more independent. This behavior is essential toward the development of a child's identity and personality. Children during this time may be difficult to deal with. Some degree of frustration, anger and tantrums may be mistaken for affection aversion -- but this is normal and should not be a source of worry.
Asperger's Syndrome
Asperger's syndrome is a one of the so-called autistic-spectrum disorders. This is a condition in which children have difficulty or unwillingness to socialize and interact with others. Children with the disorder may have obsessions, speech repetitions, lack facial expressions and have odd behaviors. Children with Asperger's may be insensitive to others' feelings and often are uninterested in friendships with their peers. Unlike the more severe autistic disorders, however, children with Asperger's typically do not have developmental delays, including in language.
Autism
Autism is a more severe disorder in which affection aversion is a critical part of the syndrome. Similar to children with Asperger's, autistic children have difficulty with pretend play, social interactions and language. These children do not make friends, real or imaginary, and reject approaches by their parents. Autistic kids also manifest delays in language development and are more likely to suffer from a variable degree of mental retardation. They are more likely to be aggressive and throw tantrums.
Treatment
There are many treatment options for autistic spectrum disorders; however, none can offer a cure. Asperger's syndrome can be treated by teaching children social interactions -- these kids must learn explicitly what most children learn by simple observation. Autism requires more complex treatment, which may need one-on-one interaction with a behavioral psychologist. Medical treatment may be needed for autistic spectrum disorders to treat co-existing depression, anxiety or hyperactivity.
