Aspergers Checklist for Adults

An Asperger's checklist for adults can help people with this form of high functioning autism identify the condition. A person can experience many of the symptoms on a subclinical level, which can make him/her assume that he/she has Asperger's syndrome when it isn't present on a clinical level. Those who have many of the symptoms of Aspergers should get an evaluation for a formal diagnosis.

Among the most intriguing aspects of AS is the individual's fascination in a certain topic. The Aspergers checklist for adults looks at specific areas of interest as a factor. Individuals who have a fixation on a particular topic that prevents them from becoming involved in other things should include this as a symptom that they experience. A sign that this may be the case is the ability to focus on one thing intensely for a long time.

Interpersonal relationships can be challenging for anyone, whether on the autism spectrum or not. However, individuals with Asperger's syndrome have difficulties with social situations that may manifest as:

• Difficulty making "small talk"
• Often told that they are arrogant or rude
• One-sided conversations
• Difficulty making friends

Although language and intellectual development is normal or advanced in cases of AS, a person with this condition has difficulty with social communication.

• Can't understand body language
• Can't interpret facial expressions
• Difficulty using eye contact, either too much or too little
• Difficulty understanding figurative language, jokes and sarcasm

The theory of mind involves the ability to understand that others think and feel differently than you do. If you are unable to figure out what someone else might be thinking or feeling just by observing, include the theory of mind on the Asperger's checklist for adults.

A strict adherence to routine and behaviors that mimic obsessive-compulsive disorder is a possible sign of adult Aspergers. Delays or other changes in routine are a great source of distress and the emotions can be overwhelming. Repetitive behaviors may help alleviate feelings of stress in some situations.

Lifelong problems with sensory processing may haunt undiagnosed adults with AS. The problems may manifest as:

• Clumsiness
• Difficulty tolerating food textures
• Uncomfortable over-sensitivity to sound, light or other sensory input
• Under-sensitive to certain sensory input
• Avoiding activities that involve motion (elevators, escalators, etc.)
• Self-stimulating behaviors like hand flapping

Keep in mind that the symptoms of AS have to interfere with your ability to function normally in everyday situations in order for it to be a matter of concern on a clinical level. Support and guidance can make a significant difference among those who are diagnosed as well as for those who have the symptoms of Asperger's on a subclinical level. Getting an evaluation can help determine how much the symptoms interfere with your ability to interact, work and socialize.