Asperger syndrome refers to s specific set of behavioral patterns, which is first observed and classified by Hans Asperger in 1940. This disorder is categorized under autism spectrum disorders. Children with this disorder may face difficulty socializing and making friends. They show odd behaviors, speech and coordination problems. Children with Asperger’s may obsess about a particular topic, show problems with co-ordination, speak in monotones, and show lack of body language, eye contact and more. Since many diseases which fall under autism spectrum disorders show similar characteristics, diagnosis of this condition is difficult.

What causes Asperger’s syndrome is a question that still baffles scientists and researchers all over the world. However, research has pointed towards genetic and environmental factors. Let’s try and understand the causes of Asperger’s in further detail.

Studies of the brain activity of kids with Asperger’s and those who do not have this condition shows that the brain structure and thought process is different in kids with Asperger’s. As a matter of fact, abnormal migration of cells during embryonic development results in differences in brain cell connectivity and structure. This in turn alters the thought and behavior of the affected person. The reason for this abnormal cell migration appears to be genetic. This theory is further supported by the fact that Asperger’s syndrome is seen more in boys than in girls.

Other studies suggest impairments in the mirror neuron system (MNS) are responsible for Asperger’s. The MNS is responsible for a person’s understanding of other people’s behaviors, intentions and actions. The mirror neuron theory suggests that children with Asperger’s syndrome have improperly developed mirror neuron systems. Such distortions interfere with communication and social skills. However, this is just a theory. Brain activity studies of children with Asperger’s have shown abnormal brain activity in areas other than the MNS.

Another study showed that people with Asperger’s have overconnectivity of the neurons at the cortex whereas neural connections between the frontal lobe and cortex have weak connections. This is called the underconnectivity theory.

In spite of several such theories which have been formulated based on brain mapping studies, MRI, encephalography studies and the like, scientists are still unsure as to the exact cause of Asperger’s. Research is still being carried out in this direction. Some studies are focusing on the effect of anti-depressants in people with Asperger’s. Other studies attempt to analyze the DNA from people with Asperger’s with the aim of identifying genetic mutations and interactions which may be responsible for Asperger’s.

In the 1940s people used to believe that the cause for Asperger’s syndrome and other autism spectrum disorders was a simply bad parenting. It was thought that parents who do not interact with their children or spend time with them are responsible for their child’s bad behavior and inability to socialize. However, this is not the case. Bad parenting does not cause Asperger’s. This is proven by the fact that families with children who have Asperger’s syndrome also have other normal children.

Whatever the cause may be, Asperger’s can be treated by a good team of therapists. They will be able to work on your child’s communication and social skills. Support from good therapists combined with support from parents and society will help children with Asperger’s’ to overcome their problem and to lead normal lives.

Mark Perry

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