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Romantic Relationships and Relationship Satisfaction Among Adults With Asperger Syndrome and High‐Functioning Autism
Author(s) -
Strunz Sandra,
Schermuck Constanze,
Ballerstein Sarah,
Ahlers Christoph J.,
Dziobek Isabel,
Roepke Stefan
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
journal of clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.124
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1097-4679
pISSN - 0021-9762
DOI - 10.1002/jclp.22319
Subject(s) - neurotypical , psychology , high functioning autism , autism , autism spectrum disorder , asperger syndrome , empathy , developmental psychology , clinical psychology , interpersonal relationship , romance , psychiatry , social psychology , psychoanalysis
Objective Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience difficulties in maintaining romantic relationships. In this study high‐functioning adults with ASD were examined concerning their romantic relationship interest and experience. Method Participants, 31 recruited via an outpatient clinic and 198 via an online survey, were asked to answer a number of self‐report questionnaires. The total sample comprised 229 high‐functioning adults with ASD (40% males, average age: 35 years). Results Of the total sample, 73% indicated romantic relationship experience and only 7% had no desire to be in a romantic relationship. ASD individuals whose partner was also on the autism spectrum were significantly more satisfied with their relationship than those with neurotypical partners. Severity of autism, schizoid symptoms, empathy skills, and need for social support were not correlated with relationship status. Conclusion Our findings indicate that the vast majority of high‐functioning adults with ASD are interested in romantic relationships.