Visual Sensitivity in the Asperger’s Child

Children with Asperger's Syndrome experience a unique set of complications associated with their senses - complications that we often do not readily identify as being related to the autistic spectrum of disorders. If you notice that your child has an acute sensitivity to light and visual events, it may be prudent to inquire about the risks for Asperger's syndrome in your next pediatric visit.

Visual sensitivity, like other sensory complications, is a neuropsychological complication that affects children and adults for a variety of reasons. In Asperger's syndrome, it is the visual sensitivity that often gives parents the first indication that their child may have a complication involving autism or other autistic spectrum complications. Even in infancy, children with risks for developing Asperger's syndrome will often shows signs of sensitivity to light.

When a child is living with a complication involving visual sensitivity, as associated with Asperger's syndrome, the complication will manifest in a variety of situations. Some children simply have a complication with seeing in certain light settings while other children may actually have severe neurological and psychological reaction in the presence of bright light. It is also not uncommon for children with Asperger's syndrome, coupled with a visual sensitivity, to experience complications with color blindness.

If you are concerned about your child's issues with light sensitivity, be sure to ask the pediatrician about vision examination and evaluation for autistic spectrum disorders, especially that involving Asperger's syndrome. While some children can learn to live with a visual sensitivity, there are others that may require occupational therapy to improve their coping mechanisms when in the presence of certain lights and colors.

Like all of the autistic spectrum disorders, Asperger's syndrome is life altering and leads to a variety of mental health, social health, and neurological complications. When caring for a child who has been diagnosed with Asperger's, always become familiar with the sensitivities of the senses and learn to manage, as best as possible, the issues with visual sensitivity.

Sources: The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome, by Tony Attwood