Troubleshooting Relationships on the Autism Spectrum

Ashley Stanford has worked as a technical writer for 17 years and is the CEO of a successful computer software company. She is the author of Asperger Syndrome and Long-Term Relationships and Business for Aspies, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. She lives with her husband, who is on the autism spectrum, in Berkeley, California.

Preface. Part I: The Troubleshooting Process. 1. The Foundational Principles of Troubleshooting. 2. Why Troubleshooting Works – Top 10 Reasons. 3. The Troubleshooting Process – Identify, Test, Evaluate. Part II: Beginning with Correct Assumptions. 4. Fixing the Problem Versus Fixing Each Other. 5. Nearly Any Problem Can be Resolved When it is Small. 6. Using Binary Thinking to Your Benefit. 7. Assumptions – How to be a Partner (Not a Parent). 8. Troubleshooting Mindblindness – The Universe is Us. Part III: Troubleshooting Everyday Problems. 9. Troubleshooting Communication – Meta-Discussions. 10. Troubleshooting Executive Function – Planning and Scheduling. 11. Troubleshooting in the Bedroom – Sensual Sharing. 12. Troubleshooting Perfection, Aiming for Imperfections, and Making Your Life Lighter. 13. Troubleshooting Your Personal Attachment Style – Anxious, Avoidant, or Secure Attachment. 14. Troubleshooting Reciprocity – Tips and Tricks to Create Support, Appreciation and Respect in your Relationship. Part IV: Troubleshooting Big Problems. 15. Troubleshooting Blame and Avoidance. 16. Troubleshooting Monogamy and Faithfulness. 17. Troubleshooting Existence Together – Inside the Home. 18. Troubleshooting in the Wild – Outside the Home. 19. Troubleshooting Obsessions and Priorities – Choosing What to Do with Your Time. 20. Troubleshooting with Children – When a Couple Becomes a Family. 21. Troubleshooting Meltdowns. 22. Troubleshooting Complaints – Toxicity in Relationships. Part V: When Troubleshooting Does Not (Or Does) Work. 23. Rebooting. 24. Other Problem-Solving Methodologies that May Work for You. 25. Troubleshooting Whether to Stay or Go – The Decision Process. 26. When it Works - Identifying and Celebrating Improvements. Appendix A: How to Love. Appendix B: Signals of Love. Appendix C: Test for Co-Dependency in ASD-Linked Relationships. References. Index.