Abstract

Asperger's syndrome is a condition associated with autism that affects an individual's ability to develop effective socialization and communication skills. In most cases, people with Asperger's display awkward socializing skills, and all their focus and interest is on specific topics. Individuals with Asperger's have no impairments in their hearing and communication organs, but their communication is slow and sometimes incomplete. Although no diagnosis is required to detect Asperger's, signs of clumsiness and unusual communication are seen at an early age. The symptoms begin to develop at two years and extend to the entire life of the individual. However, the disorder has no exact cause, and most individuals relate it to inheritance even though the genetics behind this relation is not yet confirmed.

Asperger's syndrome is a neurological condition that belongs to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), which comprises different developmental disorders. These developmental disorders are depicted by poor communication skills, communication problems, low social interactions, repetitive and restrictive behaviors (Millcreek Behavioral Health, 2020). ASDs display almost similar symptoms and might be hard to identify. Additionally, different ASDs occur with varying levels of severity, and patients may show various signs. However, among ASPERGER’S DISORDER 3 these disorders, Asperger's is considered mild, with its patients displaying higher communication ability and performing other activities (Millcreek Behavioral Health, 2020). These patients are regarded as high functioning since they show a different range of skills and abilities than other ASD patients. More so, Asperger’s syndrome symptoms are less severe than symptoms of other kinds of ASDs.

Asperger's disorder is easier to notice on keen observation. Children with Asperger's disorder are generally bright like other children but have problems when socializing with others (Brennan, 2017). Besides, these children portray obsessive behavior and focus on a particular or even perform similar actions repeatedly with no interest in other activities. Additionally, at an early age, it is difficult for children with Asperger's to make eye contact with people (Brennan, 2017). This is a symptom that can help the parents identify the disorder at an early stage. Due to this condition, it becomes hard for the child to socialize. This leads to awkward relations with other children as they are interested in a few activities and topics that make them happy. Furthermore, due to poor socialization behavior, children with Asperger's are slow in speech since they do not know what to say or how to respond when people talk to them (Brennan, 2017). Poor socialization skills may lead to segregation of these children since they prefer being left alone in most cases. It becomes challenging for other children to understand their condition, therefore, secluding them from childhood activities.

The effects of Asperger's syndrome are dominant across all community levels since it affects individuals' well-being. Most Asperger's syndrome patients suffer from isolation, negligence, challenges in finding and maintaining jobs, and depression (Millcreek Behavioral Health, 2020). Additionally, they may also experience trouble in romantic relationships due to ASPERGER’S DISORDER 4 low self-esteem and problems in socialization. This paper seeks to discuss Asperger's syndrome, its history, diagnosis, treatment, and management of the condition. More so, this paper will discuss how these people are depicted in society through the media in movies, on television, and in books. Furthermore, this paper will deliberate Asperger's in school and home or social settings. This research is essential to develop and emphasize measures applicable in managing this disorder without isolating or discriminating against these patients.

Year Manuscript Completed

Spring 2021

Senior Project Advisor

Dr. Scott Douglas

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Human Services

Document Type

Thesis - Murray State Access only

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