10/14/2009

Dear Patti,
My grandson Tyler has recently been diagnosed with Asperger’s Disorder. What exactly is this and what are the typical symptoms? I have faith in my daughter and her husband to research how best to raise a son with this problem and I have no doubt he’ll be surrounded with lots of support. We were told, however, this is a lifetime disorder he won’t outgrow and I can’t help but wonder what the impact will be on Tyler as an adult. For instance, how does it affect dating, marriage, sexuality and employment? Are there certain psychological problems that are more likely to occur? I know I’m asking several questions that probably call for lengthy answers, but any light you can shed is greatly appreciated.
— Clyde  

Dear Clyde,
Asperger’s Disorder (AD) is a pervasive developmental disorder that affects socialization, emotions, motor skills, sensory sensitivity, communication, and thinking and behavior patterns. Individuals with AD usually possess average to very high intelligence and don’t experience significant delays in language, cognitive development or competency in self-help skills. The following snapshot of AD symptoms can help you and your family to recognize and better understand Tyler’s responses and reactions.
Individuals with AD have difficulty relating to others insofar as showing interest or empathy. Lacking self-consciousness, they’re usually unaware of their social differences and may be especially sensitive to criticism. There are frequently problems with the ability to make eye contact, read and understand others’ facial expressions and body language. The lack of ability to socially interact in conversations or play often causes them to withdraw or to become intrusive. Their expression of emotions are often extremely animated or absent and this may be coupled with an unusual manner of speech and vocal nuances such as talking overly precisely with an advanced vocabulary.
Many individuals with AD have a remarkable talent for retaining facts. While they have little interest in most subjects, they can become fixated on one or two topics and talk about them incessantly. There can also be a strong tendency to adopt rigid routines and/or unexpected body movements. They sometimes show little affinity for small talk or humor and tend to interpret things literally because of their inability to grasp metaphors or symbolism. Motor skills — including handwriting — are a challenge for those with AD. Activities such as walking or running might include an uneven gait. Last but not least in the list of symptoms is hypersensitivity to tastes, sounds, light and textures.
While AD adults may experience varying levels of disability, most have found a way to adjust to this condition and lead productive lives through employment that relates to their areas of interest.  
As for dating and sexual relationships, limited social skills can inhibit these. But when AD adults do enter relationships, the physical aspects of sexuality are no different from their non-disordered peers.
Depression and anxiety are among the most common psychological problems for adults with AD. While there’s no cure for AD, cognitive behavioral therapy, specialized speech therapy and counseling can alleviate many troubling symptoms and help those afflicted develop appropriate coping mechanisms. AD adults typically don’t engage in substance abuse or rebellious/criminal behavior. They usually graduate from high school (and higher academic levels), work hard at their chosen vocation and have highly logical thinking and exceptional abilities in math or science. Other positive traits include predictability, objectivity, creativity, passion and comfort with being left alone.
To learn more, visit web sites such as aspergeradults.ca.