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Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

Gepubliceerd in:

28-01-2020 | Original Paper

Romantic Intimacy in Autism: A Qualitative Analysis

Auteurs: Giorgia Sala, Merrilyn Hooley, Mark A. Stokes

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders | Uitgave 11/2020

Abstract

Although autistic people have difficulties with social-emotional reciprocity, most still desire intimate romantic relationships. This study sought to identify enablers and barriers to emotional and physical intimacy for Autistic (n = 31) and non-autistic (n = 26) individuals. All participants completed an online survey including demographic information, the Autism Spectrum Quotient and questions on intimacy which were subject to thematic analysis. Enablers of intimacy for both groups included communication, sharing and similarity, respect and safety for self and other, and working on the relationship. Barriers for both groups included intra- and interpersonal conflicts; autistic people specifically highlighted uncertainty about relationships and communication. These findings suggest autistic and non-autistic people have similar notions of intimacy, yet have different challenges in experiencing it.

vorige artikel Child and Family Characteristics Associated with Sleep Disturbance in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

volgende artikel Mentalising Moderates the Link between Autism Traits and Current Gender Dysphoric Features in Primarily Non-autistic, Cisgender Individuals

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Titel: Romantic Intimacy in Autism: A Qualitative Analysis
Auteurs: Giorgia Sala
Merrilyn Hooley
Mark A. Stokes
Publicatiedatum: 28-01-2020
Uitgeverij: Springer US
Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders / Uitgave 11/2020
Print ISSN: 0162-3257
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-3432
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-020-04377-8

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