Identifying The Symptoms Of High Functioning Autism

By Julio Knebel


Whether it is called high functioning autism or Asperger's, individuals who suffer from such conditions are often of above average intelligence. This can delay diagnosis and it is often only picked up once a child is at school. Problems occur in the areas of communication, behavior, and particularly socialization.

The fact that these individuals are intelligent means that they may able to cope with school work but when it comes to social interaction, a different picture emerges. They want to relate to other children but lack the skills to do so. They will try to relate but in abnormal or inappropriate ways.

They cannot read the social cues that indicate that others are having a problem with their behavior. They often have difficulty in making eye contact. They do not understand humor or irony and tend to take everything literally. They often speak too quickly, too loudly or with a tone that lacks normal emphasis and inflection.

These children may be obsessed with a particular activity or interest, like playing with and talking about cars. They will talk about this endlessly without realizing they are being boring. They often do not adjust well when daily routines are changed. They may go through repetitive motions that include rocking and hand flapping.

These individuals are often very sensitive to certain stimuli. Smells, textures and sounds which others do not even notice may affect them. They may not want to eat something because of its smell. They may not want to be touched because of how it makes them feel. Flashing lights or certain sounds could disturb them.

Forming and keeping friendships is extremely difficult under these circumstances. These children are unable to share in the interests and pleasures of others. This often results in increasing isolation and depression, affecting not only the child but the whole family.

It is important to seek a diagnosis if there is any indication that your child is exhibiting these symptoms. With a lack of social skills autism disorders are a possibility. Once diagnosed, more understanding of the condition may make a great difference to a child and treatment can begin.

It is essential that an expert be consulted for a diagnosis. Appropriate tests are done, an extensive medical history is taken and behavior is closely observed for a diagnosis is made. Any other conditions which could cause similar issues are eliminated first.

Even for those coping with high functioning autism, dealing with daily life and relationships is a great challenge. There are several different ways to treat it. Applied behavior analysis, medications, and physical or occupational therapy can all help those with conditions such as this to lead as normal a life as possible.




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