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A Social Mine Field
Understanding Asperger's Syndrome
By Andrew Inches
These children are marked in society because they're so different. Some people see them as "odd" or "off-center." While their language abilities and intelligence levels are usually very high, the way they act sets them apart from the pack. Social skills typical people take for granted require lots of practice for an Aspie – a nickname for those with Asperger's. 
Kirsten only occasionally responds if asked how she's doing. If she does play with other children, it's on her terms. Once she's satisfied, she'll finish abruptly. Without saying a word, she gets up and leaves. Kids like Kirsten can appear cold and aloof. "There is a dampening of their social reciprocity and that's painful," explains Dr. Prichard.
Parents of kids with Asperger's know about that pain firsthand. "At their darkest moments, the parents will say to me, 'I don't know if he really cares about me,'" says Dr. Prichard.
Williams has also felt this sting. "This is a touchy subject with me," she cautions. "It's kind of sad." When Williams grabs her daughter's hand to hold, Kirsten's hand stays at rest. Even though Williams squeezes it, she gets nothing in return. The same is true for hugs. "When [Kirsten] goes to give you a hug, it's almost an unnatural thing for her; she doesn't know how to do that, [and] it's awkward," says Williams.
