Welcome to A.S.S.G.O

Though much research on the social skills of people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is focused on 'impairments', previous studies have clearly shown that many people with an ASD are able to solve social problems. We recently completed a study with adults with an ASD, asking them what strategies they use to solve social problems. We found that people used a range of approaches, which they found more or less useful,
depending on the situation.

In this second study, we aim to investigate further the social problem-solving skills of people with an ASD, using different types of problems and situations: concerned with 'moral' issues and how to co-ordinate actions. It is hoped that by asking people about their approaches to these problems, more information may emerge about how people with an ASD can cope better in some 'difficult' social situations. It is hoped that the results of these studies will suggest potential skills and training programs that will enhance the participation and confidence of people with an ASD in social situations. Volunteers will be asked to complete a short set of standard cognitive tasks measuring language, non-verbal skills, attention and executive functions. Participants will then be presented with a series of problem-solving tasks: half concerning moral issues (eg, whether a person's actions merit praise or blame), and half concerning co-ordination of action (eg, how to arrange a mutually convenient
meeting). After some of these items, participants will be asked to say out loud how they worked through the problem.

We would like to recruit young people and adults aged 16+ who have a diagnosis of high-functioning autism or Asperger’s Syndrome. We would also be interested in hearing from friends and relatives (who do not have a diagnosis) who would complete the study as part of our comparison group. Volunteers are welcome to visit the university (expenses incurred in doing this, such as travel and subsistence, eg lunch, will be reimbursed), or researchers can travel to visit people in their area.

We are a charity offering holidays for people with mental difficulties in Crete, Greece. Our clients are small groups of children or adults with learning difficulties, autism, etc coming from all over EU. Some of the activities we offer -besides accommodation is:

• therapeutic riding
• ergotherapy (occupational therapy)
• trekking
• swimming

If you need more info, you can visit our website www.therapeutic-holidays..org.gr or you can email us back and we will be happy to discuss the details of your holiday. THC is a not-for-profit organisation, so the cost of holidaying in our place is very favourable.

Will be pleased to hear from you,

Brett McBain

Holiday Co-ordinator

Therapeutic Holidays Centre

Casting Director looking for links to a Drama Workshop in the North of England for Children with Aspergers. 

Anyone able to help please contact Michelle Smith

Email: michelle.smith18@btinternet.com

A STUDY EXPLORING TACTILE SENSITIVITY

Are you overly sensitive or under sensitive to certain textures?

Some individuals cannot tolerate certain sensations, such as the feel of sand on their hands or walking barefoot on the grass.

For some individuals their reaction to certain sensations is so extremely aversive that their behaviour becomes inhibited, such as avoiding being touched by others or playing with objects. However, some individuals are under-responsive to certain stimuli, e.g. do not react to temperature or pain. Therefore young children who are over- or under-sensitive to touch may miss out on vital experiences for their sensori-motor, cognitive and social development. Over- and under- sensitivity to tactile stimulation is most frequently associated with children and adults diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorders and Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

From: pammcgs@msn.com
 Subject: Friends
Sent: 11/30/2006 at 12:40:48 EST from 65.201.131.126

Name:  Pam
 Comment: My son is 20 and is probably an"Aspie." No one diagnosis has ever fit him perfectly, but AS is the closest. He is DESPERATE to have friends and also maybe for that to include meeting a girl. I don't know what to do--where to take him so he can meet people who would relate to him and to whom he would relate. He sees himself as "normal" (please forgive the use of this dreadful word) but "normal" people do not see him as normal. However, he is not profoundly impaired be any means. One could spend a period of time talking to him and not notice that he's different. Is there anyone out there who can help?

 A.S.S. Coffee Group Meets Coming in 2008

We Kick Your A.S.S.!

January 2008 – The official launch of  A.S.S. 2008 Coffee Group. We will provide a convenient location in an informal, comfortable environment to engage in open dialogue on a variety of topics with people just like you!

To keep it highly effective and mutually enjoyable we would like to keep similar education, interests and experiences key in your repertoire of talents. We’ve listed key criteria that will encompass the type of people in our group.

à        Do you live in Vancouver, BC, Canada?

à        Are you born between January 1, 1965 to December 31, 1989?

à        Do you have Asperger Syndrome? Were you officially diagnosed by a psychiatrist?

à        Are you very high functioning?

à        Have you completed your High School diploma? Or are you still in High School and working towards your High School Diploma?

à        Have you been to University/College and earned an actual degree (B.A.) in your field of choice? Are you currently in University/College working towards an actual degree (B.A.) in your field of choice?

à        Are you currently employed in a stable position?

à        Do you have extensive travel experiences through North America, Europe and beyond?

à        Do you have interests in: English Literature, Theatre, Opera. Musicals, needlework, crafts, music pre 1980, teddy-bear collecting?

à        Do you have strong opinions about your interests?

If you have answered yes to more than three of the questions below and want to be a part of our lively group to meet other Aspies just like you on a regular basis in an open friendly environment? Then come join A.S.S. (Asperger Social & Support) coffee meets in 2008! Meetings for 2008 are:

January 5, February 2, March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, July 5, August 2, September 6, October 4, November 1, December 6

They will be held at Starbucks on Broadway & Commercial near the sky train & close to bus routes from 2-5pm.

For more information or if you are still interested and are worried about not meeting the criteria please email Tara Kimberley Torme with the subject heading A.S.S. coffee meets 2008 and a 1 page bio about yourself with your age, interests and why you want to join my A.S.S. at AspergerGalAspieSocial@yahoo.ca & AspergerGal@hotmail.com.

There is always a way to be part of my A.S.S. – either individually or group setting. I will also have A.S.S. middle-age, A.S.S. seniors, A.S.S. teens & A.S.S. kids groups available upon request.

****N.B. I do not provide therapy or other resources of support for people. I’m only another Aspie who provides a place for simple, friendly, open discussion about whatever you feel like.****