Asperger Syndrome (AS) is one of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) that manifests in children.  It is a developmental problem affecting one’s ability to enjoy reciprocal social interactions and communications, as well as existence of stereotyped interests and behaviors.  Asperger Syndrome, as compared with other PDD disorders, is also characterized by social dysfunction and idiosyncratic interests, without clinically significant delay in language and cognitive development.  Many children with AS also have anxiety (an "internalizing disorder") and depressive disorders ("externalizing disorders").   There are a few research studies that have examined anxiety in adolescents with AS.  These studies (based largely on self- and parental reports) find that adolescents with AS have significantly higher levels of anxiety than adolescents in the general population. 

This study investigated adolescents (aged 12 to 16 years).  It compared subjects with Asperger syndrome (29 adolescents), controls (30 adolescents) and Anxiety Disorders (34 adolescents).    The study utilized self- and parental reports
It was found that there were significantly higher levels of anxiety in both the Asperger group and the Anxiety group than in the control group. Negative thoughts, behavioral problems, and life interference were significantly higher for the Asperger group than for the two comparison groups.  According to self-reports, there were not any fewer anxiety symptoms or behavioral problems in adolescents with Asperger Syndrome who were treated as compared to adolescents with Asperger who were not receiving treatment.

(Farrugia S, Hudson J. Focus on Autism & Other Develop Disab 2006; 21(1):25-35.)

Comment.   The reason this is important information for teachers, school nurses and other supporting professionals in the school setting, is that it may explain why many behaviors have to be dealt with using different strategies. – H.T.