The Characteristics Of High Functioning Autism
With high functioning autism or Asperger's the symptoms are less severe than with other conditions on the spectrum. These children are often of average or above average intelligence. Where they do demonstrate problems is in the areas of socialization, communication and behavior.
The fact that these individuals are intelligent means that they may able to cope with school work but when it comes to social interaction, a different picture emerges. They want to relate to other children but lack the skills to do so. They will try to relate but in abnormal or inappropriate ways.
These individuals are unable to decipher facial expressions or body language. They do not understand verbal clues and take everything literally. They may stare at a person or neglect to make eye contact at all. They are not aware of personal space and do not respond to the emotions of others.
Their activities, interests and behavior often show repetitive patterns. They often become obsessed with a specific item or subject. Certain routines and rituals are followed and they tend to make repetitive motions like rocking. When speaking, a certain phrase may be repeated over and over.
These individuals may find it difficult to interpret and respond to stimuli such as touch and movement. They may be picky when eating, react strongly to smells and avoid certain textures. Some of them are averse to being touched. Others may have a problem with flashing lights or loud sounds.
With this lack of social skills, it is very difficult for them to make and keep any friends. They are regarded as misfits and often suffer rejection as they are misunderstood. This can cause them to feel alone and depressed.
Ignoring or denying that your child may have a problem of this nature prevents him or her from receiving the assistance and support so badly needed. If your child is demonstrating a real problem with social skills autism spectrum disorders are a possibility. Getting a diagnosis is the first step towards dealing with such a condition.
It is essential that an expert be consulted for a diagnosis. Appropriate tests are done, an extensive medical history is taken and behavior is closely observed for a diagnosis is made. Any other conditions which could cause similar issues are eliminated first.
Coping with daily life and relationships is complex for those with high functioning autism. They need all the help and support they can get. Various therapies as well as medications can help the individual to function to the best of his or her ability.
The fact that these individuals are intelligent means that they may able to cope with school work but when it comes to social interaction, a different picture emerges. They want to relate to other children but lack the skills to do so. They will try to relate but in abnormal or inappropriate ways.
These individuals are unable to decipher facial expressions or body language. They do not understand verbal clues and take everything literally. They may stare at a person or neglect to make eye contact at all. They are not aware of personal space and do not respond to the emotions of others.
Their activities, interests and behavior often show repetitive patterns. They often become obsessed with a specific item or subject. Certain routines and rituals are followed and they tend to make repetitive motions like rocking. When speaking, a certain phrase may be repeated over and over.
These individuals may find it difficult to interpret and respond to stimuli such as touch and movement. They may be picky when eating, react strongly to smells and avoid certain textures. Some of them are averse to being touched. Others may have a problem with flashing lights or loud sounds.
With this lack of social skills, it is very difficult for them to make and keep any friends. They are regarded as misfits and often suffer rejection as they are misunderstood. This can cause them to feel alone and depressed.
Ignoring or denying that your child may have a problem of this nature prevents him or her from receiving the assistance and support so badly needed. If your child is demonstrating a real problem with social skills autism spectrum disorders are a possibility. Getting a diagnosis is the first step towards dealing with such a condition.
It is essential that an expert be consulted for a diagnosis. Appropriate tests are done, an extensive medical history is taken and behavior is closely observed for a diagnosis is made. Any other conditions which could cause similar issues are eliminated first.
Coping with daily life and relationships is complex for those with high functioning autism. They need all the help and support they can get. Various therapies as well as medications can help the individual to function to the best of his or her ability.
About the Author:
Learn about the characteristics of high functioning autism when you visit us online. One characteristic includes Aspergers social skills that are more problematic since the individual is so smart.
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