My ASD Child

“Are there any medications used to treat the symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome or High Functioning Autism?” No medications directly treat the core symptoms of Asperger’s or High Functioning Autism. Although research into the effectiveness of pharmaceutical intervention for Asperger’s is limited, it is essential to diagnose and treat “comorbid” (i.e., related) conditions. Deficits in self-identifying emotions or in observing effects of one's behavior on others can make it difficult for kids with Asperger’s to see why medication may be appropriate. Medication can be effective in combination with behavioral interventions and environmental accommodations in treating comorbid symptoms (e.g., anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, inattention, aggression, etc.). Risperidone and olanzapine have been shown to reduce the associated symptoms of Asperger’s. Risperidone can reduce repetitive and self-injurious behaviors, aggressive outbursts and impulsivity, and improve stereotyp

“What would be the best therapeutic approach for a 6-year-old boy with High-Functioning Autism?” Click here for the answer... ***TEACHING SOCIAL SKILLS AND EMOTION MANAGEMENT***

“When and how do you test a child for Asperger’s Syndrome?” Moms and dads of kids with Asperger’s (AS) can typically trace differences in their kid's development to as early as 30 months of age. Developmental screening during a routine check-up by a doctor may identify signs that warrant further investigation. The diagnosis of AS is complicated by the use of several different screening instruments, including: Asperger Syndrome Diagnostic Scale (ASDS) Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ; with versions for kids, teens and grown-ups) Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ)  Childhood Asperger Syndrome Test (CAST) Gilliam Asperger's Disorder Scale (GADS)  Krug Asperger's Disorder Index (KADI) Unfortunately, none have been shown to reliably differentiate between AS and other Autism Spectrum Disorders.