Relationship between asperger syndrome, sexualized and non-sexualized violence

Asperger’s syndrome is grouped under the umbrella of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). This syndrome is usually undermined and remains undiagnosed despite its high prevalence among the psychiatric population. Such individuals usually find it difficult to establish social interactions and are involved in repetitive and sometimes futile activities. One point of concern is the tendency of such individuals to get involved in acts of violence and sexual offence. It has been reported, by a number of studies and case reports, that people suffering from Asperger’s syndrome are more likely to be involved in acts of violence and sexual abuse as compared to the general population. The quality of research available in this regard is not satisfactory and data available is scanty. But, based on the information we’ve so far, it can be safely assumed that there exists a positive correlation between Asperger’s and these variables (acts of violence and sexual offence). The plausible mechanism for such behavior in suffers of this syndrome is the lack of Theory of Mind (TOM). More research is needed in order to confirm these preliminary findings. Moreover, research is also needed to successful identity and rectify the risk factors and causes that might trigger such behavior in Asperger’s suffers.