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Anabaptist Disabilities Network
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Asperger Syndrome
This page focuses on Asperger Syndrome, one of a number of conditions which are often grouped together as "autism spectrum disorders."
Asperger Syndrome (AS) is a neurological disorder that involves noticeable impairment in social interaction, accompanied by unusually narrow interests and activities, and repetitive or stereotyped patterns of behavior. The condition is a pervasive developmental disability related to autism. It differs from autism in that those with AS by definition always have normal or above intelligence and no delay in language development in early childhood. Much of the information here about AS would apply equally to a similar autism spectrum disorder, PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified). Some may also use the term high-functioning autism as a rough equivalent to AS. Many individuals with Asperger Syndrome have sensory processing differences , that is, heightened sensitivity to one or more types of sensory stimuli. A Healing Community in an Overstimulated World by Paul Leichty and Christine Guth describes practical steps that congregations can take to become more inclusive and welcoming of people with sensory processing differences. Autism and Faith: A Journey Into Community. This unique guide is the product of two years of work by The Autism and Faith Task Force in New Jersey. The Task Force is a joint effort of The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities and The Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community (COSAC). With articles by family members, theologians, pastors, rabbis, people with autism, and professionals, the booklet contains facts about autism, pastoral care, religious education, strategies for supporting families, tips for lay people, and a listing of religious and public resources. The articles are highlighted by real life stories from a number of families who responded to an autism and faith survey. For order form click here.
New!
Network of Mennonites and other Anabaptists with Asperger's Syndrome If you are interested in participating in a newly forming support group for adults affected by Asperger Syndrome who relate to and/or identify with Anabaptist-related churches, send an expressing your interest.
Online Asperger Information and Support (O.A.S.I.S.)
This site has extensive information and resources related to Asperger Syndrome and autism spectrum disorders. The intended audience is for the most part parents. The "Message Boards" button is a link to semi-private online forums for parents of children, teens, and young adults with Asperger Syndrome. "Support Groups" takes you to as complete a listing of AS support groups, virtual and real, as can be found anywhere. This site has an impressive list of links to other sites pertaining to Asperger Syndrome. The Discovery of 'Aspie' Criteria "What if Asperger's Syndrome was defined by its strengths? What changes might occur?" This article by Carol Gray and Tony Attwood offers a great start in thinking positively about Asperger Syndrome. The article is posted on the website of The Gray Center for Social Learning and Understanding. The center works "to improve social understanding on both sides of the social equation, helping individuals with ASD to communicate and interact more successfully with the people with whom they live and work." GRASP: The Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership GRASP is a support organization run by individuals on the autism spectrum. Their site features articles written from the Asperger perspective. It promotes a positive view of Asperger Syndrome and related conditions. They have local support groups for adults in New York City and several other big cities. Foundation for Children with Behavioral Challenges This organization has links to Ross Greene, author of The Explosive Child, a great book. Their caregiver handout" is a condensed version of some of the important concepts in his book. Resources for Young Adults with Asperger's Syndrome Resources compiled by Christine Guth for and about young adults on the autism spectrum. Recursos sobre el Síndrome de Asperger y el Autismo (en español) Resources in Spanish about Asperger Syndrome and Autism Compilado por Christine Guth |
ADNet Resources on Asperger Syndrome
New! The Invitation of Asperger Syndrome to Faith Communities by Christine Guth includes theological reflection on Asperger Syndrome and steps congregations can take to become more welcoming to persons with Asperger Syndrome.
For a concise introduction to Asperger Syndrome, see the May 2006 issue of ADNotes . Oops...Wrong Planet! Encountering Asperger Syndrome as Cross-Cultural Experience by Christine Guth. Asperger Syndrome in the Community of Faith by Christine Guth
General information on autism.
Fragile X Syndrome is a specific genetic disorder in which individuals often have symptoms of autism. As such, it is also sometimes included among autism spectrum disorders.
An Asperger Parent Support Group meets monthly in Elkhart County, Indiana. For more information click here.
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