Wonderful, interesting, fascinating kids yet they struggle mightily to connect successfully with others (especially peers). Usually perceived as odd or peculiar yet brilliant! It’s at the mild end of what we call the Autistic Spectrum. I love to work with these children. Great story in the Dallas Morning News. http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/localnews/columnists/jfloyd/stories/122507dnmetfloyd.4a44278a.html
These children do not possess strong social skills but are unusually creative, intelligent, and gifted. Asperger’s kids in my practice have trouble with what I call emotional and social reciprocity. They do not possess the innate drive to connect intimately with others that one might expect. Developing friendships or relationships is not a priority so motivating them to work on their social and interpersonal skills can be unusually difficult. However, the earlier a parent can seek a diagnosis and intervene their overall prognosis and social success is exponentially better! Thankfully, Asperger’s Syndrome has received a great deal more attention over the past several years and school districts and health providers have done a better job of identifying at risk youngsters. I am amazed at the progress these kids have made in counseling in developing these important life skills. Their intellect and single-minded determination can be a big plus once they are convinced of the value of cultivating strong emotional and social intelligence. Check out a great online resource that’s been around since 1996. http://www.aspergers.com/