ATTACHMENT PATTERNS PRESENT WITHIN THE ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS OF INDIVIDUALS WITH ASD
Open Access
Author:
Cummings, Patricia A
Area of Honors:
Communication Sciences and Disorders
Degree:
Bachelor of Science
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Erinn Heer Finke, Thesis Supervisor Dr. Ingrid Maria Blood, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
ASD Interviews Romance
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to determine the types of attachment patterns that are most prevalent within the romantic relationships of those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Through the semi-structured interviews of nine participants with ASD, data were collected and analyzed and classified as representing either 1.) secure attachment pattern, 2.) anxious-resistant attachment pattern, or 3.) avoidant attachment pattern. Results indicated a majority of the participants were securely attached individuals with most participants displaying the knowledge of secure attachment within a romantic relationship, but having difficulty carrying out this knowledge and putting it to use. Therefore, further research into the intervention and practice of social skills in social situations is needed to help create more positive romantic interactions for individuals with ASD.
