People with autism spectrum disorders and romantic relationships – a review of the literature
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Keywords

zaburzenia ze spektrum autyzmu
dorośli i młodzież
teoria umysłu
relacje romantyczne
integracja sensoryczna
interwencje wspierające autism spectrum disorder
adults and adolescents
theory of mind
romantic relationships
sensory integration
supportive interventions

How to Cite

Dubiel, A., & Bubula, I. (2024). People with autism spectrum disorders and romantic relationships – a review of the literature. Scientific Journal of Special Education, (17), 65–80. Retrieved from https://znps.uken.krakow.pl/article/view/11420

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in both adults and adolescents are associated with disturbances in the theory of mind. Which indirectly affects the social formation of interpersonal relationships, and therefore also affects romantic relationships. Emerging difficulties in romantic relationships may not only be related to an inability to interpret the intrapsychic states of others but may also be related to difficulties in sensory integration. Both in the context of hypersensitivity and insufficient sensitivity. In this aspect, the therapeutic process should involve care and/or sensory support. In connection with relationship difficulties, the area of romantic relationships in the context of people with spectrum disorders, autism seems to be a very important sphere to be supported by various scientifically validated interventions. Interventions should address both supporting individuals with ASD to stay in the relationship and to build an intimate and close relationship with their partner. Reducing the fear of initiating a relationship or initiating an intimate act, as well as the process of discovering one’s sexual identity. Also, it seems to be an important areas for intervention. Additionally, sex education seems to be a very important area, both in the context of threats against sexual abuse but also in the realm of better self-discovery by people with ASD. There are still few interventions that are fully methodologically correctly validated, and as a result, there is still little to be said about the effectiveness of therapy for couples in which at least one of the partners is a person with an autism spectrum disorder. It is important that the topic of dating and building romantic relationships among people with ASD ceases to be a taboo subject, and that the therapeutic approach becomes much more comprehensive.

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References

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