The "silent treatment" for Asperger's (Autism Spectrum Disorder) can be either an intentional manipulative tactic or, more commonly, an unintentional shutdown due to sensory/emotional overwhelm, known as an "autistic implosion," where the person withdraws to cope with stress, becoming non-verbal and unresponsive, not to punish but because their brain has overloaded. This withdrawal, often a survival response, looks like the silent treatment to others but stems from depleted resources, difficulty processing, or extreme sensory input, making communication impossible, unlike the controlling silence used in typical conflict.
Treatment of Asperger's Syndrome usually includes: Social skills training. Adaptive skills support. Emotional regulation/Behavior support.
Be patient. People with Asperger's have difficulty communicating, so it's important to be patient with them. Give them time to process the information and respond. Be clear and direct in your communication and avoid using sarcasm or figurative language.
High-functioning Asperger's (now part of Autism Spectrum Disorder) symptoms involve strong language/intelligence but social communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, and restricted interests, including poor eye contact, literal thinking, trouble with sarcasm, intense focus on specific topics (hyperfocus), needing strict routines, and feeling easily overwhelmed by social situations or sensory input like lights/sounds, leading to anxiety and isolation.
Asperger syndrome as a diagnostic term
The diagnosis was retired in the next editions of these publications, the DSM-5 in 2013 and the ICD11 in 2019, when it was folded into the diagnosis of 'autism spectrum disorder'. As a result of these changes, Asperger syndrome should no longer be given as a diagnosis.
Around 90% of autism cases are attributed to genetic factors, meaning autism is highly heritable, with many different genes contributing, rather than a single cause, often interacting with environmental influences during early brain development, though specific environmental factors don't cause it but can increase risk. Twin studies show strong genetic links, with concordance rates between 60-90% in identical twins, and research points to complex interactions of many genes and prenatal/perinatal factors.
Computer science is a good choice because it is very likely that many of the best programmers have either Asperger's syndrome or some of its traits. Other good majors are: accounting, engineering, library science, and art with an emphasis on commercial art and drafting.
Characteristics of Asperger syndrome include difficulty with social interactions and unusual behaviors such as:
The "6-second rule" for autism is a communication strategy where a speaker pauses for about six seconds after asking a question or giving information, giving the autistic person extra time to process it without feeling rushed, which helps reduce anxiety and allows for a more thoughtful response, reducing frustration for both parties. Instead of repeating or rephrasing, which can be confusing, you wait, and if needed, repeat the exact same words after the pause.
There aren't any drugs approved by the FDA to specifically treat Asperger's or autism spectrum disorder. But some medications can help with related symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Your doctor may prescribe some of these: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Loving Someone with Asperger's: 5 Tips to Strengthen Your Bond
Physical Symptoms:
Try to stay calm, be assertive and appear confident and in control. Allow one person to take control rather than lots of people intervening, which will feel overwhelming. Give them space if this is appropriate. Provide clear and simple directions and acknowledge emotions, give a reason for direction then give direction ...
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
It is known to be effective in treating mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD in autistic children and adults. Many mental health professionals consider CBT the gold standard for treating many mental disorders.
A person with Asperger's (now considered part of the autism spectrum) often experiences challenges with social interaction and communication, such as interpreting nonverbal cues, but typically has average to above-average intelligence, with strengths in deep focus, attention to detail, honesty, and strong memory, often coupled with intense special interests, sensory sensitivities (lights, sounds, textures), and a need for routine. They may seem tactless or blunt due to a lack of social filter, struggle with emotional expression, and find sudden changes overwhelming, leading to anxiety, but they value honesty and loyalty.
Chinning is a form of repetitive self-stimulatory behavior (stimming) that you may notice in children or adults with autism. It involves pressing, rubbing, or holding the chin against objects, surfaces, or even hands to gain sensory input or comfort.
Children with autism may exhibit rigidity, inflexibility and certain types of repetitive behavior such as: Insistence on following a specific routine. Having difficulty accepting changes in the schedule. A strong preoccupation with a particular interest.
Many techniques are available to those who suffer from Asperger's to help them control their anger. These include learning to be self-aware of their behavior, relaxation techniques, self-talking, using visual imagery, and attending anger management classes or cognitive behavioral therapy.
Some of the behaviors in autistic children that some may interpret as bossy or controlling may include telling people what to do or how to behave. This may be evident in relationships, such as with family, school peers, and other social gatherings.
Emotional expression might be different, with some autistic individuals finding it easier to show affection through actions or shared interests rather than overt verbal or physical displays. Sensory sensitivities can play a significant role in comfort levels with physical touch, environments, and shared spaces.
Be sensitive to what they want and need, not just how you think they should improve or behave. Try not to talk over or about them when others are around. Help them work on social skills by trying to engage them in conversations with yourself and others. Find discrete ways to give social hints.
One common expression of anger in high-functioning autism is intense emotional outbursts such as tantrums, verbal aggression, and even physical aggression. These episodes can include shouting, name-calling, hitting, slapping, or destroying objects.
People with Asperger's syndrome (Aspies) tend to be above average in intelligence and have very focused interests. We also have a repetitive type of behavior. This means that in a job where we are problem-solving, this type of behavior is very helpful. It also enhances the ability to solve problems.