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Asperger's syndrome can be managed

If your child obsesses on dinosaurs, it may not seem unusual. But if little Johnny starts to sound like a little professor with a high vocabulary level and expertise, his condition may benefit from the help of another expert.

An obsessive interest in a single subject is a major symptom of Asperger’s syndrome. Children may become experts on one object, ignoring other topics. It is more common in boys than girls.

Asperger’s syndrome is considered the mildest of autism spectrum disorders. Autism-like symptoms include problems with language and communication, repetitive or restrictive patterns of thoughts and behavior. People with Asperger’s may have good vocabulary, verbal skills and normal intelligence, noted Neuropsychologist Terence Young, Psy.D., of Marshfield ClinicMinocqua Counseling Center. “They have trouble reading social cues, nonverbal communication or recognizing other people’s feelings. They take words very literally.”

Children with Asperger’s may also have problems with motor skills, learning late how to ride a bike or catch a ball, Dr. Young said. They may have strange movements or mannerisms or be clumsy. “All of these factors combine to make it difficult for them to make friends,” he said.

Developmental screening tests given during well-child visits to a family physician may begin to detect an autism spectrum disorder. A more comprehensive evaluation with a psychologist may follow if symptoms warrant.

There is no cure for Asperger’s syndrome, but people with Asperger’s can live full, happy lives, especially with early intervention. Treatment includes educational and social skills training to reinforce wanted behaviors and reduce unwanted behaviors. The focus is on three main symptoms: poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines and physical clumsiness.

For more information call Marshfield Clinic Minocqua Counseling Center at 715-356-1793 or 715-762-7200 in Park Falls.

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