My ASD Child

Question I’m a family therapist who is in the beginning stages of learning how to counsel Aspergers clients, specifically children between the ages of 5 and 12. What is the main thing I need to look for in working with these children. Answer One main issue that comes up routinely in therapy for Aspergers (high functioning autistic) children and teens is "social skills deficits." There are three broad categories into which we can classify social deficits: 1. Social awkwardness -- Socially awkward Aspergers kids are typically higher functioning children who may try very hard to gain and keep friends, but are hindered due to: focusing on their favorite topic or topics to the exclusion of most everything else an inability to learn social skills and taboos by observing others a lack of reciprocity in conversation and interest 2. Social avoidance -- Children who would fall into the category of socially avoidant might be those who tantrum, shy away from, or