Asperger’s Syndrome Symptoms in Adolescence
Nearly all symptoms continue to afflict through adolescence, and despite the ability to be taught some social skills they may not have, communication often remains difficult. An awareness of others’ behavior, and the implied emotions and meaning associated with it continue to be absent.
Teens with Asperger’s will naturally want friends but may feel shy or intimidated when approaching their peers. And despite difficulties in perception, they do notice a “difference” from others, which may be frustrating and emotionally draining. They may teased or bullied as a result of being immature for their age and either naïve or too trusting.
Many of the characteristic Asperger’s traits may work to the advantage of your teens with Asperger’s. They are typically not interested in following the herd, fads, or conventional thinking, which may harbor creative thinking and the pursuit of original interests. Also, their fondness for systems and rules may lead them to excel in the classroom.