ASSERT (B&H) Supporting Adults with Asperger Syndrome

Asperger syndrome (AS) is a form of autism, a disability that affects the way a person communicates and relates to others.

Key characteristics

Difficulty with social relationships

Unlike people with ‘classic’ autism, who often appear uninterested in the world around them, many people with Asperger syndrome try hard to be sociable and do not dislike human contact, but still find it hard to understand non-verbal signals, including facial expression.

Difficulty with communication

Despite speaking fluently, people with Asperger syndrome may often talk on and on regardless of the listener’s interest, reactions or feelings. They can sound over-precise and have difficulty understanding figurative language or jokes.

Difficulties with understanding other people’s points of view

People with Asperger syndrome often lack the imagination needed to mentally ‘put themselves in another’s shoes’, although they can be kind and sympathetic.

Special interests

People with Asperger syndrome often develop consuming, sometimes obsessive, interests, which usually consist of arranging or memorising facts about a specialist subject.

Love of routines

Any unexpected change in routine can be upsetting for someone with Asperger syndrome. For instance at school , college or in the workplace, changes to the daily pattern, or unexpected delays, can cause problems.