The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome: A guide to an Intimate Relationship with a Partner who has Asperger Syndrome [Paperback]

Maxine C. Aston (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 11, 2002

Based on research, her experiences as a counselor specializing in this area, as well as her personal relationship experiences, the author explores the relationships of adults with Asperger Syndrome. By using quotations and real-life examples to illustrate her points, she achieves a balance of factual information and compassionate understanding. Practical, everyday topics include living and coping with AS, anger and AS, getting the message across, sex and AS, parenting, staying together and AS cannot be blamed for everything.

Editorial Reviews

Review

(Aston) insight is extraordinary and her positive attitude and strategies for successful relationships make this an essential guide for couples. -- Dr. Tony Attwood

Her insight is extraordinary and her positive attitude and strategies make this an essential guide. --Dr. Tony Atwood

About the Author

Maxine Ashton is a qualified relationship counselor specializing in the area of autism spectrum disorders.

Product Details

• Paperback: 88 pages
• Publisher: Autism Asperger Publishing Company (February 11, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1931282048
• ISBN-13: 978-1931282048
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.6 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (35 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #39,258 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #45 in Books > Health, Fitness & Dieting > Personal Health > Children's Health > Autism & Asperger's Syndrome

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

111 of 113 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must-read for anyone in such a relationship, January 3, 2003

By 

pianodwarf (Silver Spring, MD United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome: A guide to an Intimate Relationship with a Partner who has Asperger Syndrome (Paperback)

My partner and I are both on the autistic spectrum, and I can't even begin to describe how valuable this book was for me (she hasn't read it yet, but plans to do so soon).

The first half is mainly about diagnosis. That didn't apply in our case, since we were already diagnosed, so I don't feel qualified to comment on that setion. The second half, however, is a gold mine of information on how to address one of the most important parts of any relationship: communication.

Those on the autistic spectrum communicate differently from the "neurologically typical". This book gets right into the "meat" of this matter by clearly and frankly explaining the different ways in which an "Aspie" (one with Asperger's Syndrome) interprets and uses language. It also explains strategies for both parties to use in bridging the communication gap -- rightly observing, by the way, that the Aspie partner needs to make an effort just as much as the non-Aspie partner does.

In addition, "Other Half" notes some other potential problems that may occur in your relationship (e.g., odd compulsive routines and how to deal with them) as well as certain strengths your Aspie partner will probably bring to your relationship that can be difficult to find in others.

If you or your partner have Asperger's Syndrome, this is not a book for you to miss.

87 of 88 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Validates and gives practical ideas when living with this, September 7, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome: A guide to an Intimate Relationship with a Partner who has Asperger Syndrome (Paperback)

This book is extremely helpful and supportive for those who have a Asperger spouse or significant other. It is very straight forward and tells it like it is. It was wonderful to know that I was not the only one who had to manage so many different aspects of our family's lives, but is realistic in explaining why it is necessary.

The book in not depressing, but realistic in the difficulities and benefits of this type of relationship. A good book to help you take charge and make sure that YOU also take care of yourself and know when to ask for some help.

I think this is a must read for anyone who lives with someone with Aspergers. It will really explain many of the things you may already do to support your spouse and why they work so well. This book would have saved me a lot of time and tears when I first got married. A quick read and excellent book.

108 of 111 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Clear Explanation, January 22, 2003

By 

William McNeill "WooDMaN" (In a prison of my own making) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome: A guide to an Intimate Relationship with a Partner who has Asperger Syndrome (Paperback)

Unlike "An Asperger Marriage", this book offers explanation and advice in hopes of developing understanding. My wife has found herself repeatedly experiencing "Aha's" as it becomes clear to her that I am not just an odd duck. If you only buy one book about relationships in context of Aspergers Syndrome, THIS IS THE ONE! I hope you find as much help and encouragement as my wife and I have.