| Asperger Syndrome - A guide for educators and parents by Brenda Smith Myles & Richard L. Simpson. Published by Pro-Ed, Texas, 1998; distributed by Pro-Ed Australia Ph: (07) 55 960 966
In 1944, a Viennese psychiatrist named Hans Asperger published a paper in which he described a group of children with a propensity towards social isolation and awkwardness. While these children displayed some 'typical autistic behaviours' they differed from children with autism in that they had normal intellectual development in some areas of their lives. In recent years, Asperger Syndrome has increasingly been recognised by professionals and parents.
The need for a basic understanding and practical information about Asperger Syndrome is the foundation of this book. The information is presented in an easy-to-read style and avoids unnecessary technical jargon. A number of case studies are given, demonstrating the range of behaviours found in children and youth diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome and describing how families have adjusted to life after diagnosis. It is a book that is accessible to both professionals and lay people.
The chapter titles give the reader a clear idea of the scope of the text.
Chapter 1 - Understanding the Meaning and Nature of Asperger Syndrome
looks at the diagnosis and discusses the typical pattern of development of a child with this disorder. The authors note that the condition is characterised by impaired social interaction, restricted and repetitive stereotyped patterns of behaviour, activities and interests as well as clinically significant social, occupational or other impairment in functioning. Asperger syndrome is two to three times more prevalent in boys than girls.
Chapter 2 Assessing Students with Asperger Syndrome
The authors examine the way Asperger Syndrome impinges on a child's learning ability and classroom behaviour. This chapter is closely linked with the next chapter, Teaching Academic Content to Students with Asperger Syndrome, which looks at ways of organising and motivating students.
Social skills development and behaviour management options are the focus of chapter 4, Planning for Social and Behavioural Success. The writers provide management techniques appropriate for children who are deficient in age-appropriate reciprocal behaviour, such as those required to participate in age appropriate play. This chapter outlines strategies for targeting and analyzing aberrant behavior and helps the reader to pinpoint desired outcomes associated with a child's behaviour.
Chapter 6 Understanding Asperger Syndrome and Its Impact on the Family
Explores the impact on families of individuals with Asperger Syndrome. This chapter is a collection of first hand accounts of families coping with a child or young person with Asperger Syndrome.
This book presents an overview of Asperger Syndrome and addresses issues related to characteristics of children and youth with this disorder. The authors also outline some valuable strategies that might facilitate the growth and development of these young people in the home, at school and in the community.
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