Quote:
Originally Posted by IntegrationByParts
Hello, it was recently pointed out to me that my son is very different. I don't think so but, I always thought he had Asperger's.
Things I have noticed are: - He didn't speak until he was 5
- He is a loner
- He is only interested in Physics and Calculus.
- He never looks people in the eye
- He has no friends (not being harsh)
- He doesn't show any interest in girls (he is 14)
- He doesn't understand jokes and sarcasm
There are many more and I wish I could list them all.
Another question though, he has taught him self Calculus (single and multi variable) and Physics (he is teaching himself string theory). Should I push for him to skip grades?
NOTE: He makes C's in subjects he is not interested in (Civics and English I), when asked he says, "It's not important to me, I understand English and I want to be a Physicist, not a politician".
What do y'all think? |
Asperger's is defined as far more than 'social awkwardness'. You'll find that many teens his age and beyond struggle with insecurity; I have noticed several using the label "Asperger's" as a means of comforting themselves of this. Furthermore, individuals with AS have no clinically significant delay in cognitive development or learning to speak, so I doubt that has any bearing to his diagnosis. The only patterns I would take notice of would be his lack of understanding of sarcasm, and his limited subject interests, though that is simply guesswork as you have not told me enough about him for me to make a proper conclusion.
As I said before, he may well just be going through an awkward phase, or perhaps his personality is simply that of a 'loner'. I suggest you do an in-depth study on the symptoms of AS. I would then suggest making him aware of this so that he can perhaps give you his opinion. If you feel that it fits, then perhaps it would be best to get a professional opinion.