Exploring challenges of asperger`s syndrome in a romantic relationship

Abstract

Certain psychological profiles may curtail the ability of humans to relate, interact and communicate with one another. In this study, the researcher focuses on the profile of Asperger's Syndrome (AS) and its impact on romantic relationships. Three couples were interviewed: three persons with Asperger Syndrome, and their partners who do not have a profile of AS. The participants were recruited from two NGOs, namely Kellimni.com and Appogg. To converse openly with candidates, narrative interviews were conducted. In line with this process, a useful tool to dig down into granularity of each interview was used, namely: `The Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis` (IPA). The objective of this study was to give people with AS a voice and stimulate awareness on the profile and its impact on relationships. The results indicate that communication and interaction are some of the main challenges that people with AS have to face in romantic relationships. Apart from that, partners of people with AS, have to be ready to learn new skills and be strong for their loved ones, as they are the ones who help people with AS interact and relate to others in society. Ultimately this research reinforces that love is truly unconditional.