The school experiences of females with Asperger syndrome: The recollections of adults and perspectives of parents.

In this qualitative study, the school experiences of females with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) were examined. A total of 32 participants (24 adults with AS, 8 parents of daughters with AS) completed an anonymous online survey with 8 open-ended questions in regards to their, or their daughter's, school experiences. Participants described their, or their daughter's experiences with issues such as a lack of teacher understanding of AS, particularly in regards to females, and the social difficulties experienced by females with AS at school, such as a high incidence of bullying, feeling different from their peers, difficulties developing and maintaining friendships, and a vulnerability to mental health concerns. In addition, participants also discussed helpful and unhelpful teaching strategies, and academic experiences. Results from this study indicate there is a need for further teacher education in regards to AS and its associated characteristics and challenges, particularly in regards to females. In addition, the results have suggested that the social aspects of school are particularly challenging for many female students with AS, and that females with AS are vulnerable to developing mental health problems. Implications of these findings, as well as recommendations and suggestions for further research are discussed.