How I Survive An Asperger’s Marriage
Being married to a man with Asperger’s makes us a Neurodiverse couple. Meaning coupleships are comprised of one neurotypical (NT) and one partner with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I’m the NT. There are pros and cons to every relationship. My husband’s most admirable traits are as a result of his disorder rather than in spite of it. That being said, I did experienced behavior that appeared not considerate or thoughtful. It made my husband look like he was only interested in getting what he wanted. This egocentricity (self-centeredness) is what some might call “ass hole” behavior. I knew he wasn’t behaving like an asshole on purpose, but, nevertheless, it looked and felt like asshole behavior to me. So much so I acted out my feelings in not so good ways. I would yell, criticize, cry, etc. and he would respond as if he hadn’t done anything wrong. He’s also forgetful and has poor time management skills when it comes to our relationship. Again, I know, he doesn’t do these things on purpose. He never has any ill intent. But you wouldn’t thinks so unless you understood Asperger’s and how it affects relationships.
So years of being on the receiving end of his odd behavior took a toll on my sense of self. I ended up feeling lonely, disappointed, angry and very frustrated. I didn’t feel like my strong self for years. As a result, I was experiencing what NT partners refer to as Cassandra Syndrome.
Neurology Matters in Couples Therapy. If you are married to someone on the Autism Spectrum normal couples counseling will not help. A Neurodiverse Couples Counselor, is better equipped to work with Neurodiverse Couples:
- Identify root cause of issues through a Neurological lens
- Understand meltdowns in one or both partners and how to manage them
- By making an assessment using an Asperger’s profile in one of the partners
- Interpret for each partner what behavior means
- Acquire tools that initiate communication, express thoughts and feelings, and ask for what is needed
- Implement those tools
- Put systems in place for healthier and more effective interaction
- Understand and appreciate that both have their own perspectives and see things differently
Courtesy of https://www.aane.org/neurodiverse-couples-institute/
How I Survive An Asperger’s Marriage:
- Avoid talking down to your AS (autism spectrum) partner
- Acceptance that life will be challenging
- Take your AS partner at face value. In other words, don’t try to read too much into what they’re saying. …
- Have your AS partner “reflective listen” back what you said so you know they understood you
- Ask questions to get clarity
- Be clear and specific about your expectations
- Be explicit when asking for something
- Be explicit when giving instructions
- Get some relational tools for emotional connection and effective communication
- Respect your AS partner’s need for down time
- Manage Cassandra Syndrome – Have a well rounded life of your own. Work, hobbies, friends, etc.
Being married to an Asperger husband is quite challenging. If you don’t have a well rounded sense of self, positive attitude about your neurodiversity, and relational tools you may not choose to remain in the marriage for too long. More importantly, it might not be feasible for you to stay. Like with all challenges, nothing changes when nothing changes. Get the tools needed to make your marriage work. Just like everything else, effort and commitment is key.
For more information about neurodiverse couples, Asperger husbands, and surviving an Asperger’s marriage please contact me at CouplesCounselorSanDiego.com
