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OCASG provides monthly activities like bowling, horseback riding, hiking, discussion groups and more!
What is Autism?
- When most people learn about “autism”, they associate the disorder with significant language delays, social and communication challenges, and unusual behaviors and interests. High Functioning Autism (HFA) is a term applied to autistic people who are deemed to be “higher functioning” than other autistic people, by one or more metrics. The amount of overlap between HFA and Asperger Syndrome is disputed. Consequently, some researchers argue that the two are distinct diagnostic entities, others argue that they are indistinguishable. Autism disorder is now considered to be on a spectrum.
What is Asperger’s?
- People with Asperger syndrome usually have some milder symptoms of autistic disorder, as a result, they may still have social challenges and unusual behaviors and interests. However, they typically do not have problems with language or intellectual disability. The latest version of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) no longer defines Asperger’s Syndrome. However, due to the milder symptoms our organization is continuing to recognize these individuals as having differing needs.
OCASG Lending Library
OCASG offers a lending library for OCASG Members. To checkout or donate books, click here:
Suggested Reading
The Ultimate Autism Resource Guide
- Newly released by Amy Tobik, editor of Autism Parenting Magazine.
Parallel Play: Growing Up with Undiagnosed Asperger’s, by Tim Page
- A memoir of the life of a boy who didn’t know he had Asperger’s syndrome until he became a man. Pulitzer Prize-winning music critic at The Washington Post, Tim Page was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome at the age of 45.
The Complete Guide to Asperger’s Syndrome, by Tony Attwood
- Essential reading for families, individuals and teachers affected by Asperger’s Syndrome.
Social Skills and Adaptive Behavior in Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorder, by Peter Gerhardt
- First-hand insights from individuals on the autism spectrum and their family members and service providers. These insights provide balanced perspectives on today’s research trends and practices. This book will help readers understand what really advances the social skills and behavior of students with autism.
A Consumer’s Guide to the Lanterman Act (52 pgs.)
- The Lanterman Act is a California law passed in 1977 that gives people with developmental disabilities (including autism) the right to services and supports that enable them to live a more independent and normal life.
Want to become a member?
Disclaimer: The Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG) distributes information received from other organizations as possible resources for parents and adults. The information comes from a variety of sources from the community and OCASG does not independently verify any of it. It is not endorsed by OCASG, nor does it necessarily reflect the opinions of OCASG. We welcome your comments and encourage you to contribute by forwarding your resources to OCASG.