Key Facts About Asperger Syndrome Every Parent Should Know

Emotional Challenges

Many people with Asperger’s are often labelled as being emotionally immature or socially different, and children with Asperger’s may lack empathy due to delays in social and emotional development. They also struggle to understand nonliteral phrases and nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions. In addition, many people with Asperger’s struggle with anxiety and anger management, especially in social situations.

Children with Asperger’s often express distress through emotions that do not match the situation, and something that is a mild annoyance to most children can be deeply frustrating and upsetting to them. As difficult as it may be for parents, it is important to stay calm and show understanding during these situations.

Social Challenges

Just like children with autism, children with Asperger’s often prefer to play by themselves. This may be because of their strong focus on topics other children may not have an interest in. Children with Asperger’s also tend to be more self-focused. If they are having a conversation, for example, they tend to focus heavily on themselves and their interests instead of engaging in a reciprocal, two-sided conversation.

In addition, because they have difficulty reading and deciphering nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions and body language, they often miss social cues. In school settings, children with Asperger's may struggle to understand a teacher’s hand motions for 'come here' or 'stop,' which can make them seem disobedient.