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Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

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Gepubliceerd in:

20-11-2020 | Original Paper

‘At the End of the Day, It’s Love’: An Exploration of Relationships in Neurodiverse Couples

Auteurs: Rachel Smith, Julie Netto, Nigel C. Gribble, Marita Falkmer

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders | Uitgave 9/2021

Abstract

Most autistic people report challenges in initiating and developing intimate, long-term relationships. We used a phenomenological approach to interview thirteen people who were in a neurodiverse intimate relationship (where one partner had a diagnosis of autism) in order to explore the challenges and facilitators both neurotypical and autistic partners experienced. Analysis revealed that ND relationships progressed along similar pathways as non-ND relationships. Facilitators included the strength-based roles that each partner took on and the genuine support and care for each other. Challenges were reported in communication, difficulties reading and interpreting emotions, and idiosyncratic characteristics of the autistic partner. Strategies that both partners used to cope with these challenges and their perspectives of relationship-support services are also presented.

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Titel: ‘At the End of the Day, It’s Love’: An Exploration of Relationships in Neurodiverse Couples
Auteurs: Rachel Smith
Julie Netto
Nigel C. Gribble
Marita Falkmer
Publicatiedatum: 20-11-2020
Uitgeverij: Springer US
Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders / Uitgave 9/2021
Print ISSN: 0162-3257
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-3432
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-020-04790-z

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