Assets of Asperger’s: A Positive Spin
Okay, your adult child has Asperger’s Syndrome. That does NOT mean that he or she is flawed. In fact, it makes them gifted. Keep reading to learn why.
Asperger’s in young adults can be a confusing diagnosis to understand. If your child has been diagnosed, you may have been particularly focused on some of the “negatives” of Asperger’s Syndrome. Poor social skills. Difficulties holding conversations. Repetitive patterns of behaviors. All of these symptoms can make it seem as if your son or daughter is destined for an unsatisfactory life. They’re not.
Young adults with this disorder do not have cognitive or language delays. Individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome have a high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, a developmental delay. Trouble interacting with others, expressing their emotions, or understanding social cues are some of the primary indicators. However, there are many people who do not have this diagnosis who struggle with a difficulty in social settings. The tendency to feel shy in large groups is quite common. Sure, you want your child to experience friendships and romantic relationships, and they can.
Another thing to remember, Asperger’s in young adults is not a reflection of parenting. Your child is not acting out or rebelling. He or she probably wants to be social and fit in with others their age. They just have difficulty knowing how to do so.
A slight change in perspective can actually reveal that many of the “negatives” associated with Asperger’s can be viewed positively:
• Trouble perceiving the bigger picture is a strength when you consider your child pays excellent attention to the little details.
• Your child may demonstrate problems showing empathy to others, but he or she is terrific at being direct and honest.
• He or she may be unable to understand the emotions of others. This “negative” can be useful in settings where emotions are irrelevant and hard and fast decisions need to be made.
Individuals with Asperger’s Disorder make wonderful employees in fields that require a detail-oriented mindset such as computer programming or tattoo artistry. Plus, his or her ability to make logical decisions may come in handy during high-strung emotional times when immediate action is necessary. While your child may have difficulty in larger groups, you may find that they can make amazing friends and partners. Those with Asperger’s are incredibly loyal, and many people they meet will appreciate that they are dependable truth-tellers and direct in communication.
The act of re-framing the “negatives” into “positives” has an impact. As you can see and no doubt know deeply in your heart, your child has many strengths, and having Asperger’s is not a liability but an asset.
For more information on Optimum Performance Institute’s Overcoming Failure to Launch Syndrome Program for young adults with Asperger’s Disorder, contact us now by calling (888) 814-5985 or by submitting this contact form.
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