Asperger syndrome: Living outside the bell curve

Abstract

Asperger syndrome (AS), one of the autistic spectrum disorders, is a pervasive developmental disorder characterized by an inability to understand how to interact socially. Characteristics of AS include clumsy and uncoordinated motor movements, limited interests or unusual preoccupations, repetitive routines or rituals, speech and language peculiarities, and nonverbal communication problems [1]. This eighteen-minute video uses interviews with twelve-year old Andrew Mozer, his parents, and Tina Iyama to provide an overview of AS. Iyama, physician with the University of Wisconsin Children's Hospital, discusses general features and characteristics of AS, while the footage of Andrew shows what an individual with this disorder is like. The content is organized into the following sections: “How It Started,” “How Did It Happen,” “It's a Social Thing,” “It's a ‘Sensitive’ Topic,” “Bell Curve Challenges,” and “Down the Road.” This video does not spend much time on the diagnosis process. Children with AS are commonly diagnosed after the age of three. Andrew was diagnosed when he was in first grade. In addition to the interview clips with Andrew, footage is shown of Andrew at school and at home. Andrew has been working on his listening skills. Some children with AS need a teacher's aide, because they have trouble following verbal directions. Individuals with AS enjoy routine, and Iyama suggests foreshadowing changes that will take place in their schedules to help them adjust. Some individuals with AS are self-centered. Andrew is a loner and does not seek out friendships. Individuals with AS may start noticing their isolation from others as teenagers. The interviews with Andrew and his parents provide specific examples of communication and sensory problems that illustrate Iyama's statements. Andrew is a picky eater; he does not like the way certain foods feel in his mouth. Another sensory issue that Andrew copes with is a fear of stickers. Iyama mentions the fact that behavioral interventions and medications are used to help individuals with AS, but she does not describe any particular treatments. While talking about the future for children with AS, Iyama emphasizes the fact that an individual's success is determined by a combination of the child's own inner resources, family support, educational programs, and therapists. This video is a great resource for parents of newly diagnosed children. It is recommended for consumer health collections. Another recommended video is Ask Me about Asperger's Syndrome, which focuses on the education of these students and includes specific ideas and suggestions for teachers (Ask Me about Asperger's Syndrome. 2000. Jessica Kingsley Publishers. $35.99. ISBN: 1-85302-987-4).