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What Are the Treatments for Asperger's Disorder?

by Brooke Nichols

Overview

Asperger's Disorder is a condition that is being recognized more often in doctors' offices and school settings, especially in males. It affects approximately 1 in 150 people, and the diagnosis is increasing each year.The cause of Asperger's Disorder is unknown. The condition is notoriously difficult to treat due to the many challenging behaviors that go along with the disorder. A treatment plan must be detailed and comprehensive in order to be effective. Professionals are becoming more aware of what types of treatment are effective for Asperger's Disorder.

What Are the Treatments for Asperger's Disorder?
Observe Behavior

Identifying the cause or function of a challenging behavior is the first step in treatment. Behaviors are a form of communication and individuals with Asperger's Disorder often have difficulties expressing themselves appropriately. Paying attention to difficult behaviors as a form of communication can help identify what it is the individual needs.

Provide Structure

The key to managing individuals with Asperger's is to provide predictable structure and routine in the environment. Provide visual schedules and planners with easy view of a clock or watch to assist in developing this structure. Rules are very important.
Develop a Behavior Plan

Creating a specific intervention plan to address challenging behaviors in school or at home provides parents and educators with instructions on how to handle difficult situations. Specify the negative behavior, identify common triggers that contribute to the behavior and develop logical consequences for the behavior in writing. Individuals with Asperger's Disorder need written information they can see and concrete facts to rely on.
Minimize Sensory Input

Individuals with Asperger's Disorder often have sensory issues that co-exist with the condition. This may be in the form of becoming overwhelmed in crowded spaces and/or needing to handle and chew on objects, such as pencils or other school supplies. Controlling the environment and paying attention to situations that may be overwhelming can prevent negative behavior.
Train Social Skills

Social skills training is very beneficial for these individuals. Typically, a desire to interact with others is associated with negative behavior to get attention. Teaching individuals with Asperger's a positive social skills is imperative to improving functioning.
Coach Life Skills

A field trip into the community may be a helpful way to practice basic life skills in addition to social skills needed to function independently. Role model, practice and rehearse how to interact appropriately in the community. A behavioral coach should give clear instructions, frequent praise and promote continued success through practice of the skills.
Medication

There is not a medication that is prescribed specifically for Asperger's Disorder, however there are medications to manage anxiety or out of control anger that come along with the condition.