Asperger Syndrome and Working Memory
Asperger Syndrome (AS) is one of the Autistic Spectrum Disorders and is characterized by a pattern of difficulties. Individuals with Asperger Syndrome tend to have difficulty in social situations, particularly in showing empathy, and also have trouble communicating. Children with AS can be delayed in learning language. This means that it takes them much longer to learn vocabulary and grammar compared to their peers.
What is their working memory like? It is important to remember that some individuals with AS are considered as high-functioning. This means that their IQ is average or above average. I recently published a study on high-functioning teenagers with AS. I tested their working memory by asking them to remember different patterns and word sequences using a computer test
In fact, what this study showed was that the majority of the teenagers with Asperger Syndrome (AS) struggled in verbal memory tasks. They found it very difficult to remember a sequence of numbers or words. What does this mean? The combination of poor verbal memory and social difficulties mean that individuals with AS will have a hard time learning language and remembering words and sounds, much like those with dyslexia.
The good news is that they do have strengths in visual memory, and can even have above average visual memory skills. Computerized programs that use visual demonstrations to build vocabulary and use language are really effective ways in helping individuals with AS. Some psychologists are also looking at how robots can be used to teach children with autistic spectrum disorders and these individuals prefer interacting with them.
