Aspergers and Bullying

Question

My child doesn't make friends easily because of his Asperger’s Syndrome. I'm worried he'll be bullied when he starts school. What should I do?

Answer

Kids with Asperger’s Syndrome have a difficult time establishing friends. This is due in large part to a general lack of social skills. Helping your youngster gain social skills will provide a base on which friendships can be built. Your youngster may have a difficult time joining in with others and may even experience anxiety if forced to join a group. This may in turn lead to inappropriate behaviors, which may distance them even more from the group.

A youngster with Asperger’s Syndrome often does not seem motivated or know how to play with other kids of their own age. When involved in joint play, there can be a tendency to impose or dictate how the activity will occur. Social contact with other kids may only be tolerated as long as the other kids play by their rules. Playing with other kids means that they have to share and also that they have to cope with different ideas.

Many kids with Asperger’s Syndrome prefer to be left alone and participate in their own activities without interruption. You can help your youngster by teaching them social skills that may make them more comfortable in social situations but also help them to interact appropriately and less likely to be a target for teasing.

Carol Gray developed a technique called Social Stories that has been shown to be effective in increasing social skills. This technique involves creating a story board that describes a situation and include appropriate actions and expressions. It can be like a cartoon sequence of events that give your youngster an idea of how to act in a certain situation.

The Parenting Aspergers Resource Guide: A Complete
Resource Guide For Parents Who Have Children Diagnosed
With Aspergers Syndrome.