Marriage and Asperger's

A client of mine whose son had recently been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) asked me, “Who will love my child when I am gone?” This is a very profound question that reflects the long-term fears and concerns of parents that have children with AS. All parents want to experience the happiness and well-being of their children. Intimacy, relationships, and love are integral parts of this process, especially as children grow into adulthood. Many parents and society in general believe that because of the social difficulties faced by children with AS that they will never experience love or have deep intimate relationships. Marriage is typically viewed as even more of an impractical goal as this commitment typically requires a lifelong commitment to interpersonal communication and deep emotional expression.

Although marriage might appear to others to be a lofty goal for individuals with AS, the reality is that thousands of individuals with this condition get married each year. Some of those with AS will marry what are referred to as neurotypical (NT) partners while others will find spouses that also have AS. For those that choose to take this journey there is the realization that marriage may be made more complicated by a diagnosis of AS in one or both partners. However, if two people are truly committed to each other and willing to work to have a strong marriage, anything is possible.

---
Questions? Comments? Check out our FaceBook page (don’t forget to “Like” us!) and let us know what you’re thinking:
https://www.facebook.com/CouragetoConnect
And for those of you who tweet, follow us on Twitter @CTC_DrClatch!