Aspergers and empathy

[Aspergers and empathy]

Thanks for all the speedy replies. Much appreciated x

[Aspergers and empathy]

I am considering going for an official diagnosis of aspergers. I have completed all the online screening tests and they all indicate that I could be on the spectrum except the eyes test. Everything I have read says people on the spectrum struggle with empathy and recognising facial exp<b></b>ressions. This has made me doubt my self diagnosis. Does it mean that I'm not on the spectrum??? I feel that I am very good at reading people because I've spent hours studying body language. I find it easy to look at the minute facial muscles that change with emotions - the wrinkling of eyes, raised/ lowered eyebrows. Is this not something people with AS can learn??? What about empathy? I have empathy in abundance too. My partner says I'm not empathetic but as I explained to him I can empathise if its a situation that I have experienced (I think I'm not very sympathetic!). The example I use is I always found it very difficult to be around people who had lost someone close as I had never experienced it so I didn't know how to act or what to say around people. I lost my father suddenly a few years ago, since I experienced the sadness of losing someone so close to me I feel that I am now able to comfort people who are grieving instead of running away.

 

So what I'm trying to ask for is some advice. I thought I had found my identity but now I'm confused!!!

 

I would really appreciate your opinions.