5 Things You Should Know About Sexual Behavior and Asperger's Syndrome

1. Sexual Relationships Challenge People With Asperger's

The subtle cues of dating and sexual relationships may be difficult for people with Asperger's to navigate. The syndrome is commonly known by a lack of social awareness or skills, communication difficulties, obsession with a particular topic or subject and poor coordination. Their social skills may impact the type of sexual relationships they develop. There is very little research into sexual behavior and people with Asperger's. However, most people who suffer with the syndrome show interest in sex. Society's norms on sexuality will not be intuitive to the person with Asperger's.The subtle cues of dating and sexual relationships may be difficult to navigate.

2. Teens With Asperger's Need Sexual Education

During puberty, teens with Asperger's will develop the desire for sexual interactions. It's important to be explicit about the changes in their body and their emerging feelings. Parents may want to help teens feel positive about their changing bodies. However, subtle explanations about sexuality will not register or may be misinterpreted. To help the teen understand sexual boundaries, parents or caregivers must give detailed instructions as to what's appropriate depending on the teen's age and social abilities. Books or videos that are age appropriate may help the person with Asperger's better understand sexual relationships and behavior.

3. Adults With Asperger's May Present the Sexual Behavior of Teens

Since Asperger's syndrome is a developmental delay, adults may experience sexual behavior similar to teens. They may be delayed in their social skills, which would manifest in their sexual relationships. These adults need to be made aware through observation or research which sexual behavior is age appropriate. Obsessive behavior is a symptom of Asperger's and may carry over to sexual relations. Also, some medications used to treat symptoms of the syndrome may also impact sexual desire.

4. Sensory Issues May Impact Sexuality

Hypersensitivity or under responsiveness are common in people with Asperger's. This can impact their sexual behavior, either reducing the desire to be close or causing them to be overly needy of sex. When it comes to sexual behavior, they may not understand boundaries or limits. Parents may want to use appropriate visual aids to explain touching others inappropriately, keeping their bodies appropriately clothed and touching private parts in public.

5. Intimacy Can Be a Struggle

Individuals with this syndrome struggle with the back-and-forth nature of intimate relationships. Dating and courtship can be confusing, as they rely on so many subtle or hidden rules and meanings. A person with Asperger's may find empathy a foreign emotion, causing the other partner to feel isolated and alone. With social skills training and behavior therapy, the skills necessary to achieve an intimate relationship are within reach.