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Friendship and intimate relationships in people on the autism spectrum
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Chappell, Sophie (2011) Friendship and intimate relationships in people on the autism spectrum. DClinPsych thesis, University of Warwick.
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Official URL: http://webcat.warwick.ac.uk/record=b2581095~S1
Abstract
Chapter one considers the literature on sexuality and long-term relationships in
people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The research has many methodological
flaws, however it is clear that sexuality and long-term relationships are important to
people with ASD. Their difficulties with social interactions may impact on the
development of sexuality, and this can lead to inappropriate sexual behaviours and
difficulty initiating relationships. It is suggested that further research would add to
our understanding of sexuality and relationships for people with ASD. It is
recommended that services should focus on supporting the development of
appropriate sexual behaviours, and improving the social support networks of
individuals in relationships.
Chapter two explores the experiences of friendship in six adults with Asperger
syndrome or high functioning autism (AS/HFA). Interpretative Phenomenological
Analysis is used to identify themes from the interviews. The super-ordinate themes
are: defining friendship, maintaining friendships, difference, increasing selfawareness
and maturity, and future desires. The participants particularly highlight
the importance of friendship. The results are discussed in relation to existing
research, and limitations of the study are considered. It is suggested that
interventions by statutory and voluntary organisations should focus on early
diagnosis of AS/HFA and the facilitation of friendships for adults.
Chapter three provides a reflective account of conducting qualitative research with
people on the autism spectrum. Reasons for the limited use of qualitative research
with this group are considered, and challenges to the research process are discussed.
It is argued that people on the autism spectrum have valuable contributions to add to
our understanding of friendship, due to their focus on detail. The idea that autism
should be seen as a difference rather than a disability is briefly discussed with
reference to the empirical paper.
Item Type: | Thesis (DClinPsych) | ||||
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Subjects: | B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RC Internal medicine > RC0321 Neuroscience. Biological psychiatry. Neuropsychiatry |
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Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH): | Autism spectrum disorders -- Patients, Friendship, Interpersonal relations, Autism spectrum disorders -- Patients -- Family relationships | ||||
Official Date: | May 2011 | ||||
Dates: |
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Institution: | University of Warwick | ||||
Theses Department: | Department of Psychology | ||||
Thesis Type: | DClinPsych | ||||
Publication Status: | Unpublished | ||||
Supervisor(s)/Advisor: | Knibbs, Jacky; Sanders, David; Farrell, Gavin | ||||
Description: | Completed in conjunction with Coventry University. School of Health and Social Sciences. |
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Extent: | 120 leaves. | ||||
Language: | eng |
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