Do Cats Have Asperger Syndrome

Do Cats Have Asperger's Syndrome? Exploring Cat Behavior and Neurological Conditions

Introduction:

Have you ever watched your cat meticulously groom a single whisker for five minutes, seemingly oblivious to your presence? Or perhaps your feline friend displays intense focus on a specific toy, ignoring all other stimuli? While adorable, behaviors like these sometimes lead cat owners to wonder: could my cat have Asperger's Syndrome? This comprehensive guide delves into the fascinating world of feline behavior, exploring the similarities and crucial differences between human neurodevelopmental conditions like Asperger's and the behaviors observed in cats. We'll examine the science behind cat behavior, debunk common misconceptions, and offer a nuanced perspective on understanding your feline companion. We'll also explore what conditions are observed in cats that might be mistakenly interpreted as Asperger's.

Understanding Asperger's Syndrome in Humans:

Before we can even begin to consider the possibility of Asperger's in cats, we need a solid understanding of the condition in humans. Asperger's Syndrome, now considered part of the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is characterized by difficulties with social interaction, communication, and repetitive or restrictive behaviors and interests. Individuals with Asperger's often exhibit:

Social Communication Challenges: Difficulty understanding social cues, engaging in reciprocal conversations, and forming relationships.
Repetitive Behaviors: Engaging in repetitive actions or routines, displaying intense focus on specific objects or activities.
Sensory Sensitivities: Experiencing heightened or diminished sensitivity to sensory input (light, sound, touch, etc.).
Restricted Interests: Developing intense, focused interests in specific topics or objects.

Can Cats Exhibit Similar Behaviors?

Cats, like humans, display a wide range of individual personalities and behaviors. Certain feline behaviors might superficially resemble aspects of Asperger's, leading to misinterpretations. For example:

Repetitive Grooming: A cat meticulously grooming itself, even to the point of overgrooming, might seem like a repetitive behavior. However, this could stem from stress, anxiety, allergies, or underlying medical conditions.
Focused Play: A cat intensely focused on a specific toy or activity isn't necessarily exhibiting an "intense interest" in the same way a human with Asperger's might. This is simply a natural cat behavior related to hunting instincts and play.
Social Withdrawal: A cat preferring solitude doesn't automatically indicate a social communication disorder. Cats are crepuscular animals, naturally more active during dawn and dusk. Their social needs differ significantly from humans.

The Crucial Difference: Cognitive Capacity and Self-Awareness

The key difference lies in the underlying cognitive capacity and self-awareness. Asperger's Syndrome is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting the brain's development and resulting in specific cognitive and social deficits. Cats, while intelligent and capable of complex behaviors, do not possess the same level of self-awareness or complex social understanding as humans. Their behaviors are primarily driven by instinct, learned associations, and environmental factors.

Misinterpretations and Potential Underlying Conditions:

Attributing human neurological conditions to cats is an example of anthropomorphism – assigning human characteristics to animals. Instead of diagnosing a cat with Asperger's, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian if you observe concerning behaviors. These behaviors could indicate underlying medical or psychological issues, including:

Hyperesthesia: A condition causing extreme sensitivity to touch.
Feline Cognitive Dysfunction (FCD): A neurological disorder affecting older cats, similar to dementia in humans.
Anxiety and Stress: Environmental factors and changes can lead to significant stress and behavioral changes in cats.
Pain: Undetected pain can manifest as behavioral changes.

Understanding Your Cat's Behavior:

Instead of focusing on potential human-like diagnoses, concentrate on understanding your cat's unique personality and needs. Observe their behavior patterns, interactions with their environment, and responses to different stimuli. This information can help you identify potential problems and provide appropriate support. Positive reinforcement training can help address unwanted behaviors.

Conclusion:

While some cat behaviors might superficially resemble certain aspects of Asperger's Syndrome in humans, it's crucial to remember the vast differences in cognitive capacity and self-awareness. Attributing Asperger's to a cat is inaccurate and potentially misleading. Focus on understanding your cat's individual needs and seeking veterinary advice for any concerning behaviors.


Article Outline:

I. Introduction: Hooks the reader and provides an overview.

II. Understanding Asperger's in Humans: Explains the key features of Asperger's Syndrome.

III. Can Cats Exhibit Similar Behaviors?: Analyzes feline behaviors that might seem similar to Asperger's.

IV. The Crucial Difference: Cognitive Capacity and Self-Awareness: Highlights the fundamental difference in cognitive abilities.

V. Misinterpretations and Potential Underlying Conditions: Discusses possible medical reasons for unusual behaviors.

VI. Understanding Your Cat's Behavior: Emphasizes the importance of observation and understanding.

VII. Conclusion: Summarizes the key points and offers advice.


FAQs:

1. Can cats be diagnosed with autism? No, cats cannot be diagnosed with autism or Asperger's Syndrome, as these are human-specific neurodevelopmental conditions.
2. My cat is very picky about food. Is this Asperger's? Picky eating in cats can be due to various factors, including taste preferences, digestive issues, or stress.
3. My cat only plays with one specific toy. Is this a sign of Asperger's? Cats often have preferences for specific toys, this doesn't indicate a neurological disorder.
4. My cat is very fearful of new things. Could this be Asperger's related? Fearfulness in cats can stem from various sources including past trauma, genetics or lack of socialization.
5. What should I do if my cat exhibits unusual behavior? Consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
6. Is it wrong to anthropomorphize my cat’s behavior? Anthropomorphism can lead to misinterpretations and delay appropriate care for your cat.
7. How can I help my cat cope with anxiety? Creating a safe, predictable environment and using calming techniques can help.
8. What are some signs of feline cognitive dysfunction (FCD)? Changes in sleep-wake cycles, disorientation, and inappropriate elimination are potential indicators.
9. Can medication help with behavioral issues in cats? Your veterinarian can determine if medication is necessary and appropriate based on your cat's individual needs.


Related Articles:

1. Understanding Feline Behavior: An overview of normal and abnormal cat behaviors.
2. Feline Anxiety: Causes and Treatments: A deep dive into feline anxiety and management strategies.
3. Feline Cognitive Dysfunction (FCD): Symptoms and Treatment: Information on this age-related neurological disorder.
4. Hyperesthesia in Cats: Explaining this condition causing extreme sensitivity to touch.
5. Cat Communication: Deciphering Feline Body Language: Learning to understand your cat's non-verbal cues.
6. Stress in Cats: Recognizing the Signs and Providing Support: A guide to identify and address stress in cats.
7. Positive Reinforcement Training for Cats: Techniques to train your cat using positive methods.
8. Common Cat Health Problems: A comprehensive list of common feline health issues.
9. Creating a Cat-Friendly Home Environment: Tips for creating a safe and enriching space for your cat.


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  do cats have asperger syndrome: It's Raining Cats and Dogs Michael Barton, 2012 Offers insight into an autistic person's mind through classic figures of speech that contain confusing or contradictory wording, drawings that show what he believes the expressions mean, and their actual meanings.
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  do cats have asperger syndrome: Dasha's Journal T. O. Daria, 2008-04-15 Just a few weeks old, Dasha the cat found herself in a family with an autistic child. The feline perspective provides a new outlook on autism conditions, challenging long established stereotypes and analysing controversies in the field with an unbiased attitude and humour.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: All Birds Have Anxiety Kathy Hoopmann, 2017-03-21 Life as a bird can be stressful! From worrying about airplanes, windows, and getting enough worms to eat, it is clear that birds can be anxious beings. Through a light-touch, quizzical depiction of bird behaviour, All Birds Have Anxiety uses colourful images and astute explanations to explore with gentle humour what it means to live with anxiety day-to-day, and how to begin to deal with it. Following the style of the best-selling All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome and All Dogs Have ADHD, wonderful colour photographs express the complex and difficult ideas related to anxiety disorder in an easy-to-understand way. This simple yet profound book validates the deeper everyday experiences of anxiety, provides an empathic understanding of the many symptoms associated with anxiety, and offers compassionate suggestions for change. The combination of understanding and gentle humour make this the ideal introduction to anxiety disorder for those diagnosed with this condition, their family and friends and those generally interested in understanding anxiety.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Haze Kathy Hoopmann, 2003-01-01 A lonely teenager is caught up in computer fraud.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time Mark Haddon, 2009-02-24 A bestselling modern classic—both poignant and funny—narrated by a fifteen year old autistic savant obsessed with Sherlock Holmes, this dazzling novel weaves together an old-fashioned mystery, a contemporary coming-of-age story, and a fascinating excursion into a mind incapable of processing emotions. Christopher John Francis Boone knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7,057. Although gifted with a superbly logical brain, Christopher is autistic. Everyday interactions and admonishments have little meaning for him. At fifteen, Christopher’s carefully constructed world falls apart when he finds his neighbour’s dog Wellington impaled on a garden fork, and he is initially blamed for the killing. Christopher decides that he will track down the real killer, and turns to his favourite fictional character, the impeccably logical Sherlock Holmes, for inspiration. But the investigation leads him down some unexpected paths and ultimately brings him face to face with the dissolution of his parents’ marriage. As Christopher tries to deal with the crisis within his own family, the narrative draws readers into the workings of Christopher’s mind. And herein lies the key to the brilliance of Mark Haddon’s choice of narrator: The most wrenching of emotional moments are chronicled by a boy who cannot fathom emotions. The effect is dazzling, making for one of the freshest debut in years: a comedy, a tearjerker, a mystery story, a novel of exceptional literary merit that is great fun to read.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Freaks, Geeks and Asperger Syndrome Luke Jackson, 2002-08-15 Part of the Reading Well scheme. 35 books selected by young people and health professionals to provide 13 to 18 year olds with high-quality support, information and advice about common mental health issues and related conditions. Winner of the NASEN & TES Special Educational Needs Children's Book Award 2003 Have you ever been called a freak or a geek? Have you ever felt like one? Luke Jackson is 13 years old and has Asperger Syndrome. Over the years Luke has learned to laugh at such names but there are other aspects of life which are more difficult. Adolescence and the teenage years are a minefield of emotions, transitions and decisions and when a child has Asperger Syndrome, the result is often explosive. Luke has three sisters and one brother in various stages of their adolescent and teenage years but he is acutely aware of just how different he is and how little information is available for adolescents like himself. Drawing from his own experiences and gaining information from his teenage brother and sisters, he wrote this enlightening, honest and witty book in an attempt to address difficult topics such as bullying, friendships, when and how to tell others about AS, school problems, dating and relationships, and morality. Luke writes briefly about his younger autistic and AD/HD brothers, providing amusing insights into the antics of his younger years and advice for parents, carers and teachers of younger AS children. However, his main reason for writing was because so many books are written about us, but none are written directly to adolescents with Asperger Syndrome. I thought I would write one in the hope that we could all learn together.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: The Way of Cats Pamela Merritt, 2018-05-31 The Way of Cats is a way of playing games with our cat. These communication, training, and affection games are fun and easy to learn. Then we have well-behaved and happy cats.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: When I Grow Up I Want to Be a Cat Madeleine Levy, 2021-10-31 Madeleine Levy was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome at the age of eight. This is a book about her life growing up and the education system as she experienced it. When she was asked by her nursery school teacher what she wanted to be when she grew up, Madeleine's reply was very different to all the other children's: she wanted to be a cat. Later she was bullied for being different - for being bi-sexual, for having autism, or just for being, as she puts it, a weird goth kid. When I Grow Up I Want to Be a Cat is not just a brilliantly frank memoir but also in part a supportive guide for youngsters with autism and their parents or carers, and in part a critique of the education system whose standardised support Madeleine found lacking. It is a book that genuinely gives the perspective from someone on the autistic spectrum - and not just Madeleine's own voice but the voices of nine other individuals with autism spectrum disorder whom she has interviewed for the book. Whatever your interest in autism or whatever your reason for reading it, When I Grow Up I Want to Be a Cat is an unforgettable read in which Madeleine addresses the highs and the lows of her life with compelling honesty, and which ultimately carries a hugely positive message for anyone who is facing struggles in life just for being different.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Blue Bottle Mystery Kathy Hoopmann, 2001 Ben finds an unusual old bottle buried in the school yard, and in a roundabout way it helps Ben and his family find out what is causing some of the persistent problems he has both at home and at school.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Atypical Jesse A. Saperstein, 2010-04-06 The poignant, funny, and truly unique observations of a young writer diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. Please be forewarned that you are about to read the observations and life lessons of someone who entertains himself by farting in public and conversing in gibberish with his cats. Thus begins the charming, insightful, and memorable story of Jesse Saperstein. Diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, a mild form of autism, Jesse has struggled since childhood with many of the hallmark challenges of his condition-from social awkwardness and self-doubt to extreme difficulty with change and managing his emotions. He has also worked hard to understand and make the most of his AS- developing his keen curiosity and sense of humor, closely observing the world around him, and most of all, helping others with AS to better cope and even thrive. Told with endearing and unflinching honesty, Jesse brings his unique perspective to the circumstances of his life and his condition.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Brotherly Feelings Sam Frender, Robin Schiffmiller, 2007-01-25 It isn't easy being eight years old and having an older brother whom other children often misunderstand. They don't realize that when he doesn't laugh at their jokes it's because he doesn't understand them. They don't know that when he doesn't speak to them or look at them it's because he doesn't know what to say or how to make eye contact. They don't realize that he behaves this way because he has something called Asperger's Syndrome. Sam knows that his brother Eric is different from him because his brain works differently. So, when the other children bully Eric, it makes Sam feel protective of him. But sometimes, when Eric behaves oddly, Sam feels embarrassed too. Sometimes, when Eric gets lots of attention, it makes Sam feel resentful - then, when he considers that Eric needs a lot of help and attention, it makes Sam feel guilty for feeling resentful. There are so many different feelings Sam experiences! Brotherly Feelings explores the emotions that siblings of children with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) commonly experience. With illustrations throughout, this book will help siblings to understand that their emotional responses - whatever they are - are natural and OK. It is the ideal book for parents and professionals to use with siblings to discuss their emotional experiences, and will also help children with AS to form an understanding of the feelings of other family members.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: I am an Aspie Girl Danuta Bulhak-Paterson, 2015-04-21 Lizzie is an Aspie Girl - she has Asperger's Syndrome, which means that her brain works differently to her friends, and even to boys with Asperger Syndrome. In this book, Lizzie explains what it's like to be an Aspie Girl, including how she has a special talent for blending in with her friends, how she gets really tired after being at school all day, how she worries about making mistakes, and how she finds it hard to understand how she is feeling. By simply, clearly and positively explaining the social differences associated with Asperger's Syndrome, or Autism Spectrum Disorder, in young girls, this book will help Aspie Girls aged 5-11 to understand their diagnosis, recognise their unique strengths and celebrate their differences, and find ways of coping with difficulties. This positive and celebratory book also contains helpful discussion points for parents and professionals to explore further with the girls in their care.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Asperger Syndrome and Long-term Relationships Ashley Stanford, 2003 First published in 2002. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Asperger's Syndrome Tony Attwood, 1998 Tony Attwood's guide will assist parents and professionals with the identification, treatment and care of both children and adults with Asperger's Syndrome. The book provides a description and analysis of the unusual characteristics of the syndrome and practical strategies to reduce those that are most conspicuous or debilitating. Beginning with a chapter on diagnosis, including an assessment test, the book covers all aspects of the syndrome from language to social behaviour and motor clumsiness, concluding with a chapter based on the questions most frequently asked by those who come into contact with individuals with this syndrome. Covering the available literature in full, this guide brings together the most relevant and useful information on Asperger's Syndrome, incorporating case studies from the author's own practical experience as a Clinical Psychologist, with examples of, and numerous quotations from people with Asperger's Syndrome.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Aspergirls Rudy Simone, 2010 Subject: Girls with Asperger's Syndrome are less frequently diagnosed than boys, & even once symptoms have been recognized, help is often not readily available. The image of coping well presented by AS females can often mask difficulties, deficits, challenges, & loneliness.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Animals Make Us Human Temple Grandin, Catherine Johnson, 2009 The author of Animals in Translation employs her own experience with autism and her background as an animal scientist to show how to give animals the best and happiest life.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: The Autism Detective Elaine Brownless, 2021-05-21 Dear Kit and Scully, your mission is to learn about autism. On this quest you will need to investigate the human brain and learn about diversity. What do you know about autism? Whether you know a little or a lot, you are invited to explore your understanding of the autism spectrum and discover something new by joining detectives Scully and Kit on their investigation. As Scully and Kit interview six ordinary children, follow the clues and see if you can guess which of them are autistic. This book puts the spotlight on six children that openly talk about their experiences at school and at home. By the end of the book, two children reveal what autism means to them. Read this alone or with an adult and learn about autism, diversity, how we are all unique and what we all share.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Exploring Feelings Tony Attwood, 2004 Many children, especially those with developmental delays, have trouble understanding or expressing their feelings. The result can be difficulty with anger management. This book provides a guide for caregivers. It includes a workbook portion that asks children to identify situations that trigger their anger and find appropriate ways to respond.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Asperger's Syndrome and Jail Will Attwood, 2018-09-21 Will Attwood was finishing a three-year sentence in prison when he was formally diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome for the first time. After his diagnosis he recognised just how much it had been affecting his life behind bars. This is a practical advice guide for people with autism who have been sentenced to time in prison. Will shares his first-hand knowledge of what to expect and how to behave within the penal system. He sheds light on topics that are important for people with autism, answering questions such as: How should you act with inmates and guards? How do you avoid trouble? What about a prison's environmental stimuli may cause you anxiety? His thoughtful, measured writing debunks rumours about daily life in prison, and the useful tips and observations he offers will help anyone with autism prepare for the realities of spending time incarcerated, and be enormously helpful to those working with offenders on the autism spectrum.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Blue Bottle Mystery - The Graphic Novel Kathy Hoopmann, 2015-11-21 This graphic novel re-telling of Kathy Hoopmann's best-selling Blue Bottle Mystery brings the much-loved fantasy story to life for a new generation of readers. The hero is Ben, a boy with Asperger Syndrome (AS). When Ben and his friend Andy find an old bottle in the school yard, little do they know of the surprises about to be unleashed in their lives. Bound up with this exciting mystery is the story of how Ben is diagnosed with AS and how he and his family deal with the problems and joys that come along with it.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Finding Our Way Kristi Sakai, 2005 The latest in the Practical Solutions series, this book, written by the mother of three children with autism spectrum disorders, targets, with a balance of heart-warming and belly-aching humor and practical tools, the major challenges families face in creating a comfortable environment for every family member.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Understanding Sam and Asperger Syndrome Clarabelle Van Niekerk, Liezl Venter, 2008 A third-person past-tense narrative tells the story of Sam, a boy with Asperger Syndrome. Positive qualities are listed first: Sam loved to giggle...;. Sam was a happy boy. Next come some of his challenges: he is afraid of loud noises, he has trouble making friends, and he does not like change. When he leaves the house at night, walking all the way to the local fairgrounds because he loved the Ferris wheel so much, his parents know that something must be done. They take him for a check-up and receive the diagnosis. The doctors and therapists give them some suggestions for helping their son at home and at school. The book concludes with Sam playing the cello at a school concert. Because of the interesting story line, the positive approach, and the notion that others can learn to help Sam instead of expecting him to change, this is an excellent introduction to the topic. The pictures are bright and lively, showing mostly happy faces. The book concludes with 10 helpful tips to remember when a friend or a classmate has Asperger's. A useful introduction for both children and adults.-- Age: 4 - 8
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Thinking Person's Guide to Autism Jennifer Byde Myers, Shannon Des Roches Rosa, Liz Ditz, Emily Willingham, 2011 Thinking Person's Guide to Autism (TPGA) is the resource we wish we'd had when autism first became part of our lives: a one-stop source for carefully curated, evidence-based information from autistics, autism parents, and autism professionals.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: All About Dyspraxia Kathy Hoopmann, 2022-03-15 All About Dyspraxia follows in the best-selling footsteps of Kathy Hoopmann's All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum and All Dogs have ADHD. Through engaging text and full-colour photographs, this book shows how people with dyspraxia see and experience the world and highlights the unique characteristics that make them special. A perfect introduction to dyspraxia for those recently diagnosed with the condition, as well as their families, friends, and the people who work with them. People with dyspraxia will also appreciate the book for the way it shares their perspectives on life with care and gentle humour.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Catwatching Desmond Morris, 2009-03-26 The personality of the cat is a fascinating mixture of affection, domesticity and active independence. You may think you know your cat as he purrs in your lap, but come across your pet in the street on a dark night and you might think that Bagpuss suffers from a dual personality. Every single feline pet carries an inheritance of amazing sensory capacities, vocal utterances, body language and territorial displays. By answering such questions as 'what does a cat signal with its ears? 'why does a cat rub up against your leg?' and 'why does a cat swing its head from side to side when staring at its prey?', Desmond Morris decodes the private world of the cat. Your cat is full of surprises and our finest zoologist is about to reveal their secrets in this beautifully repackaged edition of a much loved bestseller.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Thinking in Pictures Temple Grandin, 1996 In this unprecedented book, a gifted animal scientist who is also autistic, delivers a report on autism, written from her unique perspective. What emerges is the document of an extraordinary human being, one who bridges the gulf between her condition and our own, shedding light on the riddle of our common identity.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome Kathy Hoopmann, 2006
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Everybody is Different , 2001 This book is different A delightfully illustrated book for school friends or brothers and sisters aged 8-13 of children with autism, it explains the characteristics of autism, explores what it feels like to be a brother or sister of someone with an autistic spectrum disorder, and suggests some approaches to making life more comfortable. This book is different A new, delightfully illustrated book for school friends or brothers and sisters aged 8-13 of children with autism by Fiona Bleach, an accomplished artist and art therapist who has worked in a National Autistic Society school. It explains the characteristics of autism, investigates what it feels like to be a brother or sister of someone with an autistic spectrum disorder, and suggests some approaches to making life more comfortable for everyone. Written with insight and charm, this book offers real and accessible support.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: The Ice-Cream Sundae Guide to Autism Debby Elley, Tori Houghton, 2020-06-18 Autism is a bit like an ice-cream sundae. There are lots of ingredients that go into it. There are so many types of sundae glasses out there. Some are plain and simple, some are loud and proud! In fact, sundae glasses are a bit like people - we're all different. Because we all have different personalities, autism doesn't look the same in everybody. This picture-led book uses ice-cream sundae ingredients to represent various aspects of autism such as sensory differences, special interests or rigidity of thinking, explaining the different facets of autism in a neutral way. The reader can create their own individual 'ice-cream sundae' to illustrate their personal strengths and challenges, highlighting how it makes them unique and helping to build confidence and self-awareness. It includes colourful illustrations and workbook activities to help children cement their understanding of autism.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Winston Wallaby Can't Stop Bouncing Kay Al-Ghani, Joy Beaney, 2017-12-19 Winston Wallaby, like most Wallabies, loves to bounce. However, Winston can't seem to ever sit still and when he starts school he needs help to concentrate... Luckily his teacher Mrs Calm shows Winston how to settle down and focus his mind in class, and he learns new ways to help him with touch, feel, attention and awareness. This fun, illustrated storybook will help children aged 5-10 with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) recognise their sensory needs and develop tools to support them. A helpful introduction for parents and carers explains hyperactivity and how it can affect a child's perception of the world, and the appendices at the back provide useful strategies to be adopted at school and at home.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Exploring Feelings for Young Children with High-Functioning Autism or Asperger's Disorder Dr Anthony Attwood, Angela Scarpa, Anthony Wells, 2012-11-15 Young children with autism have particular difficulty in understanding and controlling their emotions, especially when those emotions are negative. This practical manual for professionals provides a set of simple strategies to help children with high-functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome who suffer from mood difficulties to decrease negative feelings and increase positive feelings in daily life. Using a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, The Stress and Anger Management Program (STAMP) is designed specifically for young children in their pre-school and early school years. The book outlines a 9-session group program using methods, games and activities that are developmentally appropriate. Treatment components include affective education, cognitive restructuring, social and group stories, and the emotional toolbox. The group therapy can be tailored for individual therapy when needed. A parental component is also included to support practice at home and promote generalization outside of the classroom or therapy setting. This is a dynamic and effective resource for professionals working with young children with autism spectrum disorders including teachers, guidance counselors, psychologists, speech therapists, behavioral therapists, occupational therapists, and social workers.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: The Survival Guide for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders (And Their Parents) Elizabeth Verdick, Elizabeth Reeve, 2015-01-05 This positive, straightforward book offers kids with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) their own comprehensive resource for both understanding their condition and finding tools to cope with the challenges they face every day. Some children with ASDs are gifted; others struggle academically. Some are more introverted, while others try to be social. Some get stuck on things, have limited interests, or experience repeated motor movements like flapping or pacing (stims). The Survival Guide for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders covers all of these areas, with an emphasis on helping children gain new self-understanding and self-acceptance. Meant to be read with a parent, the book addresses questions (What’s an ASD? Why me?) and provides strategies for communicating, making and keeping friends, and succeeding in school. Body and brain basics highlight symptom management, exercise, diet, hygiene, relaxation, sleep, and toileting. Emphasis is placed on helping kids handle intense emotions and behaviors and get support from family and their team of helpers when needed. The book includes stories from real kids, fact boxes, helpful checklists, resources, and a glossary. Sections for parents offer more detailed information.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome Tony Attwood, 2007 A guide to Asperger's syndrome describes what it is and how it is diagnosed, along with information on such topics as bullying, emotions, language, movement, cognitive ability, and long-term relationships.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Different Like Me Jennifer Elder, Marc Thomas, 2005 Profiles twenty famous individuals who may have been autistic, including Albert Einstein, Andy Warhol, Dian Fossey, and Glen Gould.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: Safety Skills for Asperger Women Liane Holliday Willey, 2011-09-15 Life with Asperger's Syndrome can be a challenge at the best of times, and trials and tribulations that neurotypicals take in their stride can leave Aspies perplexed and unsure of how best to solve problems and keep themselves safe, both physically and emotionally. This book explores difficulties that those with AS may face, and suggests practical and helpful ways of overcoming them. Liane Holliday Willey's positive and encouraging advice teaches people with Asperger Syndrome how to appreciate their differences and work from their strengths, by being honest about and coping with challenges. By setting realistic expectations, she shows how it can be possible to live on your own and take care of yourself, touching upon everything from banking and housing to roommates, friendships, and relationships. Jobs and the workplace are explored as advice is given on interviewing, performance, and getting along with colleagues, and the importance of setting boundaries is explained. The focus throughout is on keeping yourself safe, and this extends to travel, cultural awareness, and generally organising yourself. Personal hygiene and the body are also covered, along with nutrition and illness. The advice all adds up to show that people with AS can safeguard themselves from emotional and physical harm and live happy and independent lives, as long as the right guidance is available. This book will be of interest to people with Asperger Syndrome, their friends and families, and professionals working alongside ASDs.
  do cats have asperger syndrome: I Am AspienWoman Tania Marshall, 2015-08-12 Have you ever wondered about a friend, a partner, a mother, sister or daughter? Wondered why she says she feels 'different'? Maybe she is a woman on the Autism spectrum, with a unique constellation of super-abilities, strengths and challenges?