ABSTRACT
Asperger syndrome is characterised by subtle impairments in three areas of development. There are, in some cases, additional motor coordination problems. Sensory issues are also considered to feature in the condition. Typical features include:
The child with Asperger syndrome:
l will be socially isolated, but may not be worried about it;
l may become tense and distressed trying to cope with the approaches and social demands of others;
l begins to realise that his peers have friendships, particularly when he reaches adolescence. He may then want friends of his own, but lack strategies for developing and sustaining friendships;
l will find it difficult to pick up on social cues;
l may behave in a socially inappropriate way – singing along to songs from Oliver! is fine when you’re listening to a CD, but embarrassing for your parents when you sing along during a performance in a West End theatre.
