"I usually say to the child, "Congratulations, you have Asperger's syndrome", and explain that this means he or she is not mad, bad or defective, but has a different way of thinking." - from "The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome". "The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome" is the definitive handbook for anyone affected by Asperger's syndrome (AS). It brings together a wealth of information on all aspects of the syndrome for children through to adults. Drawing on case studies and personal accounts from Attwood's extensive clinical experience, and from his correspondence with individuals with AS, this book is both authoritative and extremely accessible. The chapters examine: causes and indications of the syndrome; the diagnosis and its effect on the individual; theory of mind; the perception of emotions in self and others; social interaction, including friendships; long-term relationships; teasing, bullying and mental health issues; the effect of AS on language and cognitive abilities, sensory sensitivity, movement and co-ordination skills; and, career development. There is also an invaluable frequently asked questions chapter and a section listing useful resources for anyone wishing to find further information on a particular aspect of AS, as well as literature and educational tools. Essential reading for families and individuals affected by AS as well as teachers, professionals and employers coming in contact with people with AS, this book should be on the bookshelf of anyone who needs to know or is interested in this complex condition.

Table of Contents

1. What is Asperger's Syndrome?; 2. The Diagnosis.; 3. Social Understanding and Friendship.; 4. Teasing and Bullying.; 5. Theory of Mind.; 6. The Understanding and Expression of Emotions.; 7. Special Interests.; 8. Language.; 9. Cognitive Abilities.; 10. Movement and Coordination.; 11. Sensory Sensitivity.; 12. Life After School: college and career.; 13. Long-term Relationships.; 14. Psychotherapy.; 15. Frequently Asked Questions. References. Subject index. Author index.

About the Author

Tony Attwood is a practising clinical psychologist with more than 25 years' experience. He has worked with over 2000 individuals of all ages with Asperger's syndrome. He presents workshops and runs training courses for parents, professionals and individuals with AS all over the world and is a prolific author of articles and books on the subject.

Reviews

'Tony Attwood explores in depth the complexity of the mysterious group of clinical pictures known collectively as Asperger's syndrome, part of the wider autistic spectrum. He describes all the puzzling and fascinating aspects of these conditions and brings them vividly to life with illustrations from personal histories. He emphasises the fact that the individuals concerned have special skills as well as disabilities. Most important of all, he makes imaginative but always practical suggestions for helping people with the syndrome, their families and others who are involved. The author has achieved real empathic understanding of children and adults whose basic problem is a biologically based lack of empathy with others. The book is to be highly recommended for those with Asperger's syndrome as well as for families, other carers and professionals in the field.' - Lorna Wing 'Tony Attwood's Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome is a boon for all those who are confronted by this intriguing condition in their daily lives. It is full of good sense and the wisdom that comes from years of clinical experience, and full of compassionate advice for a host of problems, vividly illustrated by case material. This is a comprehensively researched and beautifully written state of the art review of what is currently known about Asperger's syndrome. I would recommend this volume as essential reading not only to those who want to learn about Asperger's syndrome, or expand their knowledge, but also to professionals who would like to gain a fuller, wiser and richer picture than can currently be gained from any other source.' - Uta Frith