Katie_WPG wrote:
Yeah...
It doesn't sound like AS.
-He's very successful (not saying that people with AS can't be...but typically in idea oriented, technical fields. Networking based fields...not so much)
-He only shows interest in people when he can benefit (people with AS show interest in people they find interesting or friendly, not necessarily those they can use)
-He is good at charm and manipulation (people with AS typically aren't)
The reason why this may be is because many people (even psychologists) misunderstand the meaning of the word "empathy". Therefore, they are ready to diagnose any self-centered, manipulative person with AS when in reality, their behaviours are more in line with Narcissistic PD or Sociopathy.
I first got to reading about Asperger's because I thought my exboyfriend had it...and I think I still do. Looking back at our relationship and random comments thought I wonder if Narcissistic PD or Sociopathy would be more fitting. He seems to get caught up in contradictions and seemed a little bit manipulative (great combo with my naivete). I gave him a Barnes and Noble gift card and one of the books he bought was Machiavelli's The Prince (he had read it years ago) he wanted to apply it to his personal life. He also once mentioned how he almost married for money. My dad told me he was slumming when was dating me (I felt hurt and mad at my dad, but now I wonder if he was just hoping to find someone he could control). When I had doubts about us, one of his comments was, "Are you afraid of leaving your family behind?" He is well off, my family, not so much....ugh, I thought we could relate, but the more I think about anything he ever said the more I think he was just trying to manipulate me.
I think you're right, maybe he (my ex, not the original poster's brother) may not be an Aspie after all, but I knew something wasn't right...I need to try and move on. I first read about Sociopathy because of a previous boyfriend... they really make me miss my first few boyfriends that just wanted what a lot of guys "just want"- and I thought I was being taken advantage of then, ha! ...
This should probably now be in a relationship topic...
Thanks to anyone who reads or responds...sorry if it seemed like I hijacked the discussion, but I think it is all related.
24 Jun 2009, 5:49 pm
