How is Asperger's syndrome treated?
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The ideal treatment for Asperger syndrome (AS) coordinates therapies that address the three core symptoms of the disorder: poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness. There is no single best treatment package for children with AS, but most professionals agree that the earlier the intervention, the better.
An effective treatment program builds on the child's interests, offers a predictable schedule, teaches tasks as a series of simple steps, actively engages the child's attention in highly structured activities, and provides regular reinforcement of behavior. This kind of program generally includes:
Social skills training, a form of group therapy that teaches children the skills they need to interact more successfully with other children. Cognitive behavioral therapy, a type of "talk" therapy that can help the more explosive or anxious children to manage their emotions better and cut back on obsessive interests and repetitive routines Medication, for co-existing conditions such as depression and anxiety Occupational or physical therapy, for children with sensory integration problems or poor motor coordination Specialized speech/language therapy, to help children who have trouble with the pragmatics of speech - the give and take of normal conversation. Parent training and support, to teach parents behavioral techniques to use at homeThis answer is based on source information from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
The ideal treatment for Asperger syndrome (AS) coordinates therapies that address the three core symptoms of the disorder: poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness. There is no single best treatment... More -
The Dan Marino Foundation answered:No two people with Asperger syndrome are identical. Treatment and educational interventions should be individualized to suit the needs of the person. Supports and interventions may include:
- Teaching skills and concepts in naturally occurring situations and across settings to maximize generalization.
- Providing a predictable environment with consistent daily routines and minimal transitions.
- Role playing social situations in which the individual with AS is taught how to react to social cues.
- Teaching social awareness, taking the perspective of another, and interpretations of non-literal language.
- Teaching appropriate nonverbal behaviors such as eye contact, gestures, proximity to others and correct posture.
- Instruction on reading the nonverbal communications of others (e.g., facial expression, body language).
- Restricting the discussion of the individual’s special topic to specific times and/or places.
- Creating a buddy system in which a peer can help with instructional directions by the teacher, remembering homework assignments and staying on task. Buddies may also facilitate active socialization with others.
No two people with Asperger syndrome are identical. Treatment and educational interventions should be individualized to suit the needs of the person. Supports and interventions may include: Teaching skills and concepts in naturally... More -
The best treatment for Asperger syndrome coordinates therapies that address poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and clumsiness. There is no single treatment plan for all Asperger syndrome patients, but it is considered that the earlier the intervention, the better. It is highly recommended that children receive intervention involving behavior management and educational and social training while the brain is still developing. An effective treatment program builds on the child's interests, offers a predictable schedule, teaches tasks as a series of simple steps, actively engages the child's attention in highly structured activities, and provides regular reinforcement of behavior. Most people with Asperger syndrome respond well to structured schedules or routines.
Behavioral therapy: For more than 30 years, several different types of behavioral therapy have helped patients with autism spectrum disorders to improve their communication and social skills, as well as their learning abilities and adaptive behaviors. Behavioral therapy has been shown to reduce inappropriate behavior. Evidence suggests that behavioral therapy is most effective if it is started early in life.
Stimulants, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and amphetamines (Adderal® or Dexedrine®), may help treat hyperactivity and/or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which are often associated with Asperger syndrome. These drugs help improve concentration and reduce overactivity. Side effects associated with taking stimulants may include anorexia, insomnia, irritability, headache, and stomachache.
Speech-language therapy: Some patients with Asperger syndrome may benefit from speech-language therapy to help them with the pragmatics of speech, which include the give and take of normal conversation. During speech-language therapy, a qualified speech-language professional (SLP) works with the patient on a one-to-one basis, in a small group, or directly in a classroom, to help the patient improve speech, language, and communication skills. Programs are tailored to the patient's individual needs.
You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
The best treatment for Asperger syndrome coordinates therapies that address poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and clumsiness. There is no single treatment plan for all Asperger syndrome patients, but it is considered... More
