Little Professor Syndrome

Little professor syndrome, more commonly known as Asperger syndrome, is considered a mild autism spectrum disorder because severity of symptoms vary. People with little professor syndrome generally have normal intelligence, but experience problems with communication and social interaction and exhibit repetitive and obsessive behaviors. It is usually diagnosed during early childhood.

History

• Little professor syndrome was first noted by Viennese doctor Hans Asperger. In 1944, Asperger published a paper describing young boys who demonstrated autistic-like symptoms but had normal intelligence and verbal skills. Asperger's findings went largely unnoticed until 1981, when a series of case studies published by Lorna Wing drew the attention of many. She referred to the condition as "Asperger's," but it was not until 1992 that Asperger syndrome became an official diagnosis.

Repetitive/Obsessive Behaviors

• Children with Asperger syndrome often become narrowly focused on one object or subject, to the point where all other objects or topics are ignored. A child with Asperger syndrome will talk with authority on the subject of interest, thus sounding like a "little professor." Repetitive actions and routines are also common among those with Asperger syndrome.

Social Interaction

• Children with little professor syndrome are often isolated and have a difficult time making friends because of poor social skills. Awkward verbal and physical behavior make them a target for teasing. They lack the ability to pick up on social cues and must learn social skills on an intellectual level. They have difficulty empathizing with others and experience difficulty with nonverbal communication skills. In conversation, they often seem eccentric or rude. A child with little professor syndrome often speaks bluntly, even when it seems rude to do so, and almost always interprets language literally.

Other Symptoms

• A child with little professor syndrome will often exhibit problems with motor-skills, appearing clumsy or uncoordinated and experiencing problems with seemingly simple tasks, such as tying shoelaces or throwing a baseball. He may also experience sensitivity to light, sound and taste, preferring only certain foods or soft clothing. Certain smells may make a child with Asperger syndrome nauseous. Unusual speech habits and physical movements are also common.

Treatment

• There is no known cure for people with Asperger syndrome; however individual symptoms may be treated in a number of ways. According the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, treatment programs often include behavioral therapy and social skills training, as well as medication for other conditions or specific symptoms, such as anxiety or depression. Treatment should address all aspects of the disorder including communication skills, obsessive and repetitive behaviors and motor-skill functioning.

Outlook

• Although little professor syndrome does not have a specific treatment, children can learn to cope with the symptoms of the disorder. Early diagnosis and treatment is beneficial. Many children with Asperger syndrome grow up to lead healthy, normal lives and maintain successful relationships and careers.