Todd Cardin Continues Scripting for Asperger's Syndrome

Todd Cardin of ETC Theater has developed new scripting to aid children with Asperger's syndrome. The new scripts are geared towards teenagers. These scripts are made to help adolescents that are dealing and facing new challenges. Todd Cardin feels that the scripting reinforces social skills needed to cope in a teen's changing world.


Asperger's syndrome, Asperger's, or just AS — is a pervasive developmental condition related to autism. It manifests in highly individual ways and can have both positive and negative effects on a person. It is recognized by the medical community as one of five neurobiological pervasive developmental disorders considered to be part of the autistic spectrum. It is typically characterized by issues with social and communication skills. Due to the mixed nature of its effects, it remains controversial among researchers, physicians, and people who are diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome.

Asperger syndrome is differentiated from other PDDs and from high functioning autism in that early development is normal and there is no language delay. It is possible for people with AS to have learning disabilities concurrently with Asperger syndrome. In these cases, differential diagnosis is essential to identify subsequent support requirements. Conversely, IQ tests may show normal or superior intelligence, and standard language development compared with the delays typical of classic autism. The diagnosis of AS is complicated by the lack of adoption of a standardized diagnostic screen, and, instead, the use of several different screening instruments and sets of diagnostic criteria. The exact cause of AS is unknown and the prevalence is not firmly established, due partly to the use of differing sets of diagnostic criteria.

Asperger syndrome was named in honor of Hans Asperger an Austrian psychiatrist and pediatrician, by researcher Lorna Wing, who first used the eponym in a 1981 paper. In 1994, AS was recognized in the 4th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as Asperger's Disorder.

Todd Cardin feeels that, if handled properly, teenagers with aspergers actually have an advantage over most children. "Adolescents, in general, often do not know how to act.", Cardin said. "AS Children are more likely to follow guidance and learn proper behavior."