As I have noted previously, I share some behavioral characteristics that could be identified with Asperger Syndrome; i.e. relative difficulty and clumsiness in relating with other people. (I.e., it takes more effort for me in dealing with others, as I don’t possess natural grace; but I generally like people so I try to make the effort, nonetheless). Thus, I’ve taken an interest in this condition.

Whether I could be formally diagnosed with Aspergers hasn’t been terribly important to me, however, given that nothing can be done for an adult Aspie other than have some therapist talk you to death while simultaneously bleeding your savings to death. An occasional vacation or spending spree with the money seems to have more “supportive bang for the buck”; for me, anyway.

I see, however, that researchers are experimenting with a possible drug therapy for Aspies, using oxytocin, the famous “love hormone”. A study recently conducted in France on Aspies indicates that a shot of oxytocin spray up the nose makes Aspies more willing and able to break out of their shells and get involved with others. As reported in Science Daily,

Following oxytocin inhalation, adults with Asperger’s syndrome or high-functioning autism were more inclined to play with the most socially responsive partner in a video ball game . . . also, when participants were shown pictures of human faces, they were more likely to focus attention on the eyes, an important marker of social interaction, the researchers found.

Well, that raises an interesting question. If this eventually pans out and oxytocin spray becomes a medically accepted therapy for Aspie adults, should I then try to convince a doctor to put me on it? Would I be happier in life, through the miracle of modern neuro chemistry?

For the time being, I believe the answer would be NO. I’d rather continue along the bumpy roadway of my own reckoning, if possible, than to have a smoother ride along a path designed and laid out by others. I.e., in the end I’d like to be able to sing what Sinatra sang, i.e. “I did it my way”.

Besides, there is some rough evidence that oxytocin might promote aggressive behavior in certain circumstances. I’ve been a mostly non-aggressive person most of my life, and I probably wouldn’t do very well with increased urges to punch somebody out. So I think that I will stay who I am, in my little “Aspergers twilight zone”.

IMPORTANT FOOTNOTE: I’m not saying that people whose lives are significantly affected by Asperger Syndrome and high-functioning autism should avoid getting help. I believe that I am coping with life fairly well overall, but many others who are similarly challenged in their human relationship capabilities suffer a variety of unhealthy effects, including loneliness, unemployment, depression, and anxiety. If you need help, for whatever reason — GET IT!