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FAQs
Further information on autism and Asperger's Syndrome
What is autism?
Autism is a condition that affects people by impairing to varying degrees, their social skills and understandings. Their brains process information differently to others and they often find it difficult to relate to people in a meaningful way. They are not physically disabled in any way which often creates difficulty in awareness and understanding of the condition.
What is Asperger's Syndrome?
Asperger's Syndrome affects those with autistic tendencies at the higher functioning end of the autistic spectrum continuum. They tend to have fewer difficulties with language and social communication than those with autism. Often they are of average or above average intelligence.
What causes autism or Asperger's Syndrome?
Nobody really knows. It seems probable that the conditions are caused by a variety of factors which impact on brain development resulting in certain parts of the brain's neural network developing differently. They are definitely not caused by a person's upbringing.
What is the main characteristic?
The main characteristic is the presence of the 'triad of impairments'. This refers to difficulties with at least one of the sets of communication skills which non autistic people take for granted. These are impairment of social communication, social interaction and social understanding and imagination. Often people suffering from the triad of impairments find the world a confusing and frightening place. This can cause high levels of anxiety which can lead them to act unpredictably or unconventionally or even result in uncontrollable aggressive behaviour.
Are there any other characteristics?
Other conditions that can accompany autism are; obsessional interests, repetitive behaviour, learning disabilities, epilepsy and heightened senses.
Is there a cure?
No. Although a variety of on-going research projects are enlarging our knowledge of the conditions. For now, autism and Asperger's syndrome have to be regarded as a life long condition.
What can be done to help?
The most important thing is to ensure that a diagnosis is made as early as possible. Once this has been established you can make contact with your local authority social services department and link into a very wide range of agencies offering appropriate help and support. These can cover local and national support groups, specialist libraries that publish the latest research findings as well as helpful books and pamphlets (mainly written by people affected by the condition), how to access respite care, information on residential care such as The Springs Community, that specialise in caring for and helping those with the condition.
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