Asperger's Syndrome

Sometimes a parent may be concerned that their child is having 'social' difficulties. Sometimes, another professional working with your child may also express concern. The term 'Asperger's Syndrome' or 'Autism Spectrum Disorder' might be used to explain these difficulties. However, Asperger's Syndrome is more than just a child's difficulties in the social arena.

The assessment of a child for Asperger's Syndrome is very complex. Unfortunately there is no single test which covers the whole spectrum of strengths and weaknesses as shown by children who may qualify as having Asperger’s Syndrome and the diagnosis relies on the opinions of experienced clinicians such as, but not limited to, psychologists.  

Characteristics of Asperger's Syndrome

This is a complex area and the following list is by no means exhaustive. If you believe - or a teacher or another professional has suggested - your child may have Asperger’s Syndrome, then you need to speak with a professional about these concerns.  

Generally the five domains in which the child operates will be affected. These domains are Thinking, Speaking, Feeling, Behaving and Socialising.

Some characteristics of children with Asperger’s Syndrome may include

• Social deficits may include a lack of empathy
• Lack of metacognitive ability
• Their relationships with others may be impaired or absent
• Conversation may be one-sided and focussed on their own narrow interests
• Verbally, speech patterns often lack rhythm and flow, being delivered in a flat and monotone manner
• Conversations may be lengthy but lack focus and often involve a ‘lecturing’ style
• They are aware of the presence of others and will alter their behaviour as a result
• Non-verbally, difficulty reading cues; often not maintaining eye contact or staring intently
• They take a literal interpretation of language
• As young children there is an absence of imaginative play - older children have difficulties in any imaginative or creative activities
• They may appear clumsy with delayed motor skills; they may move slowly and may be very slow writers

To make a determination of Asperger’s Syndrome a child’s behaviours and functioning are evaluated in terms of the diagnostic criteria set out in the international guidelines of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fourth Edition, Text Revision (2004; DSM-IV-TR).

Assessments which contribute to the decision related to the diagnosis:

• Interviews with parents
• Discussion with Classroom teacher
• Interviews with previous and present professionals working with the child
• A cognitive assessment is undertaken
• Observation of the child at school and/or in other settings and the completion of The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS)
• Completion of other questionnaires by parents and teachers