I think that it is possible to describe AS in a clinical, objective manner without being overly negative. Many clinical articles about AS describe the symptoms and resulting disadvantages, concluding that people with AS are socially isolated and rarely lead normal lives. They do not mention that there can be advantages to many of the AS symptoms. This is an example of exaggerated negativity:
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/asperger/asperger.htm
quoted:
Quote:
Children with AS are isolated because of their poor social skills and narrow interests. They may approach other people, but make normal conversation impossible by inappropriate or eccentric behavior, or by wanting only to talk about their singular interest. Children with AS usually have a history of developmental delays in motor skills such as pedaling a bike, catching a ball, or climbing outdoor play equipment. They are often awkward and poorly coordinated with a walk that can appear either stilted or bouncy.
I think this is a bit extreme - a lot of people who meet the criteria for an AS diagnosis are capable of some social interaction and normal conversation, just not to the extent necessary to blend into society.
Here's one that's better:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/aspergerssyndrome.htmlquoted:
Quote:
Asperger's Syndrome
Asperger's syndrome (AS) is an autism spectrum disorder. It is milder than autism but shares some of its symptoms. It is more common in boys than girls.
An obsessive interest in a single subject is a major symptom of AS. Some children with AS have become experts on dinosaurs, makes and models of cars, even objects as seemingly odd as vacuum cleaners. Their expertise, high level of vocabulary and formal speech patterns make them seem like little professors.
Children with AS have trouble reading social cues and recognizing other people's feelings. They may have strange movements or mannerisms. All of these make it difficult for them to make friends. Problems with motor skills are also common in children with AS. They may be late learning to ride a bike or catch a ball, for example. Treatment focuses on the three main symptoms: poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness.
Another annoying thing about these articles is that adults with AS are only mentioned briefly at the end, if at all.
However, a lot of the ones I looked at were not as bad as I expected them to be.
10 Apr 2008, 12:49 pm
