Asperger's Syndrome

Also known as: Asperger syndrome, AS, autism spectrum disorder, ASD, Asperger Disorder.

What is Asperger's syndrome?

Asperger's syndrome describes a group of symptoms in children who have difficulties with social, behavioral and communication skills who have only mildly abnormal/good language (more frequently) and cognitive skills with average/above average intelligence. At present it is classified as part of the diagnosis of “autism spectrum disorder.”

What causes Asperger's syndrome?

Asperger's Syndrome is a developmental condition of unknown cause. It tends to be more common in girls and run in families.

What are the symptoms of Asperger's syndrome?

Children with AS have difficulty making friends, like to have fixed daily routines, have long one-sided discussions about a favorite topic without input from the person they’re talking to, have poor eye to eye contact and few or unusual facial expressions or postures and have difficulty in social situations not picking up social cues or others’ body language.

In addition they may have delayed motor development and walk late, or will have an awkward gait and difficulty using a knife or fork. They are very sensitive to loud noises or strong tastes. Most symptoms continue into the teen years when they may become withdrawn, socially isolated, anxious and depressed.

What are Asperger's syndrome care options?

Treatment aims at improving a child’s ability to interact with others, to be able to function effectively in society and be self-sufficient. Each child is different and therapy focuses on their specific needs by helping them with communication, social skills, behavior, task management and other life skills. Medications may also be needed for conditions that commonly accompany Asperger's syndrome.

Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: November 19, 2019 01:21 PM

Weekly Support Programs

​F.O.C.U.S. Program

This group therapy program is designed for children ages 7 to 17 with behavioral issues, including but not limited to ADHD. The weekly sessions teach innovative techniques to assist children with managing feelings, developing organization skills, maximizing their concentration abilities and socialization skills. Learn More.

Mosaico Therapy Group

This six-week group therapy program is designed for teens who have symptoms of depression, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal challenges.  Learn More.

Calm Kids

8 week program. Calm Kids is a weekly group therapy course designed to teach children strategies on how to take control over anxiety symptoms. Children will learn how to cope with fears and worries, identify anxiety triggers, how to relax the mind and body and maximize their self-confidence. Learn More.

Teen Sleep Group

The six-week program is designed for teens ages 12 to 17 experiencing difficulties related to sleep, including daytime sleepiness, trouble waking in the morning, difficulty falling asleep and waking in the middle of the night. The goal of this group is to give teens the tools and strategies they need in order to get more sleep and better quality sleep. Learn More.

Wise Girls Workshop

Wise Girls Workshop is a six-session, primary prevention program, facilitated by the Department of Psychology and thoughtfully designed to empower middle school students ages 11-14 through evidenced-based practices. Each session is 60 minutes long and will include 8-10 young female participants.

Learn More.