I am autistic and have Asperger's Syndrome and my blogs are going to be about sharing information about what Asperger's Syndrome is, the skills of those who have it and what gifts those people can bring to the employment sector and society in general.
It is worth me saying a bit about who I am. My name is Andrew Marsh, I am 58 and was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome when I was 51 after a lifetime of not fitting, being different and in many cases bullied and abused by those around me.
I want to share with you a clinical definition of what Asperger's Syndrome is:-
"Asperger's Syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder, one of a distinct group of complex neurodevelopmental disorders characterised by social impairment, communication difficulties and restrictive, repetitive and stereotypical patterns of behaviour."
I don't like that 30 word definition for many reasons. Firstly it uses the word "disorder" twice and that implies there is something wrong with the person when in fact, there is an awful lot right with them, they just need the right support and environment to thrive in.
It says nothing about the skills and abilities of the person and rather focuses on the negative. I aim to show you in this blog that I am starting today, just how wrong that clinical definition is and how amazing people on the spectrum can be.
I have my own 30 word definition for Asperger's Syndrome that I think is far more fitting and applicable.
"Asperger's Syndrome is an autism spectrum condition characterised by unique problem solving skills, a highly developed imagination and a flair for innovation in design, engineering, science, computing and the arts."
Now that is a 30 word definition that I can get behind and support.
So, if you would like to join me on my blog journey to find out more about Asperger's Syndrome and how to support those with the condition and what steps, strategies and coping mechanisms can help aid them in work and society then you will be most welcome.
Please like and subscribe to my blog and welcome aboard!