Through a Different Lens: Spirituality in the Lives of Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome

Abstract

Spirituality is an important component in the lives of many individuals. Very little information is available on how spirituality impacts individuals with Asperger's syndrome, a high functioning form of autism. This article presents an overview of Asperger's syndrome and discusses how cognition is reflected in their development of existential theory of mind, their propensity toward the sciences, and their understanding of spirituality. It concludes with a discussion of how faith-based communities may promote personal and spiritual growth.

KEYWORDS:

• autism
• Asperger's syndrome
• spirituality
• disabilities