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A Social Mine Field
Understanding Asperger's Syndrome
By Andrew Inches
Along with the standard set of worries that come with raising a typical child, there is a new set of concerns – concerns over how their child will survive growing from adolescence into adulthood weigh heavy. The maddening day-to-day struggle leaves parents emotionally and physically drained. Parents can feel trapped in their own home. It's hard to find help. 
"It's like the umbilical cord can't be cut," says Williams. "You never get to get away from them and they can't have any fun without you. [We] get no support. We're just doing the best that we can for her."
Raising these kids makes their parents feel stranded on their own streets. It's hard for others to understand. Outsiders sometimes see the way an Aspie acts and takes it as the actions of a spoiled brat instead of a person suffering from a disorder.
Kirsten's behaviors have had an effect on others. "We'll see everybody playing outside and so we'll go outside; then everyone will go back in," says Williams. "It's really sad because she might be a little odd, but she's so incredibly smart."
Getting Support