Asperger's or NVLD: Has Your Child Been Misdiagnosed?
Since young people with Nonverbal Learning Disabilities (NVLD) and Asperger’s (high functioning autism) share similar traits, it is tempting to say that they meet the diagnostic criteria for either classification – but this is not the case. Learning disabilities and Asperger’s are significantly different disorders. Also, different types of assessments and interventions need to be selected to address the distinct - and sometimes overlapping - features of each. Kids with Nonverbal Learning Disabilities are described as showing signs of: Social isolation (e.g., not being sure of how to join a group or initiate social interaction) Social intrusiveness (e.g., standing too close to someone; following someone around during casual conversation; not knowing when or how to join a conversation; having a hard time engaging in the “give and take” of “small talk”) Physical awkwardness (e.g., not knowing what to do with their hands during casual conversation; showing anxiety-induced behavio