Asperger Syndrome, First Edition

Usually diagnosed in childhood, Asperger syndrome is a lifelong social disorder characterized by a lack of empathy, little ability to form friendships, one-sided conversations, clumsy movements, and intense absorption in special interests. While Asperger syndrome has received increasing attention from researchers, clinicians, educators, and parents in recent years, numerous central questions about the disorder remain unanswered. This groundbreaking volume brings together preeminent scholars and practitioners to offer a definitive statement of what is currently known about Asperger syndrome and to highlight promising leads in research and clinical practice. Diagnostic and conceptual issues are explored in depth, and the disorder's assessment, treatment, and neurobiology are thoroughly reviewed. The book examines the effects of Asperger syndrome on an individual's social, communication, and behavioral development, and identifies the challenges that individuals with AS face at home, in school and the workplace, and in other settings. The volume concludes with several parent essays that exemplify the trials and tribulations--as well as the joys and the victories--of life with a child with Asperger syndrome.

Ami Klin, PhD, is the Harris Associate Professor of Child Psychology and Psychiatry at Yale University's Child Study Center. Dr. Klin is the author of more than 60 articles and chapters in the field of autism and related disorders, and has coordinated a series of federally funded research studies focused on Asperger syndrome. His main research interests involve the neuropsychology and social cognition of disorders of socialization.

Fred R. Volkmar, MD, is Professor of Child Psychiatry, Psychology, and Pediatrics at Yale University's Child Study Center. Dr. Volkmar is the author of more than 150 articles, chapters, and books in the field of autism and related disorders. He is an editor of the second edition of the Handbook of Autism, chair of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry's committee on autism, and an associate editor of the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders and the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.

Sara S. Sparrow, PhD, is Professor of Psychology and Chief Psychologist at Yale University's Child Study Center. Dr. Sparrow is the author of more than 100 articles and chapters in the fields of psychological assessment and developmental disabilities, and the senior author of one of the most widely used psychological instruments, the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales. Her main research interests involve the assessment of adaptive behavior, child neuropsychology, and developmental disabilities.