Asperger’s syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder and, as such, people with Asperger’s syndrome display behaviours and experience similar difficulties to people with autism.
Asperger’s syndrome is often referred to as higher functioning autism since a person with Asperger’s syndrome shares similar traits to those with autism. They may also have exceptional skill or talent in a specific area. As a result, people with Asperger’s syndrome are often viewed as eccentric or odd, which can have an effect on personal relationships, as well as employment.
Symptoms and characteristics
People with Asperger’s syndrome have difficulties with social skills, transitions or changes and prefer sameness. They often have obsessive routines and may be preoccupied with a particular subject of interest. They may have a great deal of difficulty reading another person’s body language and very often people with Asperger’s syndrome have difficulty determining proper personal space, for example standing too close to someone.
People with Asperger's typically have intellectual impairments which affect their social, family and work life. They also may have problems with language and be unable to speak or speak unusually. In some cases a person with Asperger’s may be so impaired that they may be unable to complete schooling.
People with Asperger’s syndrome are often overly sensitive to sounds, tastes, smells and sights. They may prefer soft clothing, certain foods and be bothered by sounds or lights no one else seems to hear or see. Many of the behaviours that seem odd or unusual are due to neurological differences and not the result of intentional rudeness.
For more information on symptoms of Autism related disorders are available at the links below:
Workplace adjustments and solutions
For specific workplace information relating to assisting people in the workplace with Asperger’s syndrome or autism, please follow the link:
There are also adjustments and solutions for the following job requirements:
Case studies and success stories
For employers and managers:
For job seekers and employees:
For co-workers:
For service providers:
References
Autism Association of Western Australia Inc. 2009, What is Autism?, Autism Association of Western Australia Inc., Perth, viewed 12 August 2011, http://www.autism.org.au/content/page/What-is-Autism.html.
Autism Spectrum Australia 2011, What is Autism?, Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), Sydney, viewed 12 August 2011, http://www.aspect.org.au/a2i1i1l237l113/what-is-autism.htm.
Autism help 2011, What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?, Autism Help, Melbourne, viewed 12 August 2011, http://www.autismhelp.info/what/default.aspx.