How to Be Yourself in a World That's Different: An Asperger Syndrome Study Guide for Adolescents

by Yuko Yoshida, Esther Sanders (Translator), Lorna Wing

Overview

How to Be Yourself in a World that's Different is an accessible guide to Asperger's syndrome (AS) written for young readers who have been diagnosed with AS and autism spectrum conditions. The book features clear explanations of the condition, including symptoms that are common to people on the autism spectrum, such as a hypersensitivity to touch and difficulties with balance and coordination. The characteristics and symptoms of other syndromes that often coincide with AS are also discussed, for example AD/HD, learning disorders and tics, as well as the temporary states of mental dysfunction that people with AS tend to be predisposed to, including depression, anxiety, obsessive and compulsive behaviors and catatonia. This informative and encouraging text highlights the positive aspects of autism spectrum conditions, such as diligence, fairness and a knack for unique ideas, but it also acknowledges the daily challenges faced by young people with AS and, crucially, offers strategies for dealing with these. Using case examples, Yoshida explores the difficulties of disclosing a diagnosis, takes readers through the stages of practicing key social skills, and offers advice on seeking support.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781846426148
Publisher:	Kingsley, Jessica Publishers
Publication date:	11/15/2006
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	112
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Yuko Yoshida M.D. is a child psychiatrist at the Yokohama Psycho-Developmental Clinic in Japan, which specializes in diagnosing and treating children with autism spectrum and other developmental disorders. She is also Managing Director of the Institute of PsychoEducation for Children. She trained under Lorna Wing and Judith Gould, has over 20 years' clinical experience and is one of only a handful of professionals in Japan certified to use the Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication Disorders (DISCO). She has previously authored Championing the individual: On raising children with Asperger's syndrome and high-functioning autism and co-translated into Japanese The Autistic Spectrum: A Guide for Parents&Professionals by Lorna Wing.
Yuko Yoshida M.D. is a child psychiatrist at the Yokohama Psycho-Developmental Clinic in Japan, which specializes in diagnosing and treating children with autism spectrum and other developmental disorders. She is also Managing Director of the Institute of Psychomedical Education for Children. She has over 25 years' clinical experience and has taken training courses taught by Lorna Wing and Judith Gould, and she is one of only a handful of professionals in Japan certified to use the Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication Disorders (DISCO).

Table of Contents

Foreword by Lorna Wing. Acknowledgments. How to Use This Book. Part 1: Information. 1. Research Related to Asperger Syndrome. 2. Asperger Syndrome in Detail. 3. Temporary Mental Dysfunction. Part 2: Advice. 4. Special Strategies for Coping. 5. Hobbies - Five Major Trouble Spots. 6. Support and Understanding. A Message to the Reader - You Are a Wonderful and Caring Person! A Message to Support People. Recommended Reading. Appendix: Steps for Effective Time Management. References.