Books for Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger
The World Health Organization estimates that about 1 in 160 people has Autism Spectrum Disorder. There is however wide discrepancy with diagnosis in different countries.
The condition usually manifests with impaired social skills, speech and communication impairment and repetitive activities that is unique for the person.
Psychological intervention such as social skills training and Parent Skills training is the key component of management. Social interventions are important as well as medications especially if anxiety or depression becomes an issue.
If you are looking to understand and cope with Autism Spectrum Disorder or help a loved one, we carefully selected several helpful books for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome
by Tony Atwood
Comprehensively and Scientifically Outstanding
The book is excellent in discussing Asperger’s syndrome and its various presentations are supported with case studies, available researches and theories. Technical terms are expected but he explains them well for his general audience. The exploration of the condition from childhood to adulthood with the various treatment options available is a must for anyone who is seeking to understand Asperger’s Syndrome.
The claim of being “complete” is a misnomer because the audience are mainly children, younger adults or parents and much less so for older adults. It is however typical of any book who asserts “complete” because anyone can find a reason to disagree. Perhaps “detailed or comprehensive” will be a more appropriate claim.
On a positive note, it also shows Asperger not as a disability but more as a work in progress. It covers a lot of area that it is likely to spare you some heartache if you suffer from Asperger’s or even social clumsiness.
The Asperger's Syndrome diagnosis might have changed in DSM V (it is now known as autism spectrum disorder or social communication disorder), but the people are just the same. This book is a must for anyone who wanted a comprehensive Asperger's Syndrome Reference book.
Click The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome to Read More.
Social Skills for Success
A highly informative social skills training book filled with practical and visual materials to facilitate learning. It covers several aspects of communication and social skills topics arranged in both individual and group specific lessons.
Written in 2003, it is still irreplaceable and personally has not been surpassed by any Asperger social skills workbook of the present time. I do feel however that the book will be less appropriate for older adolescents.
It otherwise outlines concrete step by step examples on how to approach different situations such as listening, staying on topic and bullying in an easy to understand format. Although the audience are people who suffers from Asperger’s Syndrome, the book can also be helpful for children who struggles with social skills.
If used consistently and persistently, this social skills book can reap huge reward and may hold the key to your child’s success.
Click Social Skills Training for Children and Adolescents with Asperger Syndrome and Social-Communications Problems to Read More.
Thinking in Pictures, Expanded Edition: My Life with Autism
by Temple Gardin
A Lady of Vision
Ms Gardin is the epitome of courage, talent and determination who serves as an inspiration for anyone who wishes to find strengths in their weaknesses.
This book shows that Asperger’s maybe different because they perceive things differently and, without much preoccupation on how others think, their ability to focus in what they want is second to none. With support and acceptance, they can be highly successful and go to lengths that many of us may not ever dream off.
Her writings may not be poetic but it is rather straight forward and easy to digest. Best of all, she does not make any excuses on what she has done or failed to do but she adapted to achieve her goals. Alternative autobiography is Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's which I felt may be better written but I am not really sure whether it exactly conveys Asperger symptoms as some of his life experiences feels reflective more of coexisting conduct issues.
If you are looking for an inspirational autobiographical book to lift your spirits up, then this book is for you. Once you finished reading, you may not look at Asperger’s or Autism the same way again.
Click Thinking in Pictures, Expanded Edition: My Life with Autism to Read More.
There is no substitute for professional advice, please consult your doctor.