How has the Diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome Impacted on the Educational Experiences of Young Men

In this qualitative research, I was keen to explore the experiences of young adolescent men diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome and the impact of having the diagnosis on their educational experiences. This study is unique because, although much research has involved the views of adults with Asperger Syndrome and the experiences of parents on the assessment and diagnosis of their sons, little research has been undertaken regarding the experiences of young men themselves.

In order to facilitate the young men’s voices I elicited the support of the mothers as co-researchers and participants in the research. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight young men, eight mothers and three fathers (who also participated in parts of the interview). The research also involved considering the experiences of mothers on the journey to have their son’s needs diagnosed and the support provided to meet educational needs. The data was analysed using Thematic Analysis. Three themes emerged, including families’ experiences obtaining the diagnosis; families’ experiences of education following diagnosis and the young men experiences.

This research produced a range of insights about the experiences of having a diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome and the impact of such on the educational experiences of this group of young adolescent men. It highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between sons and mothers and the need for Educational Psychologists to develop skills in promoting the voices of young men diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, in line with current legislation.