ERIC Number: EJ884378
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2010-Jun
Pages: 10
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2154-1647
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Available Date: N/A
Sexuality Education for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Critical Issues and Decision Making Guidelines
Travers, Jason; Tincani, Matt
Education and Training in Autism and Developmental Disabilities, v45 n2 p284-293 Jun 2010
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) present unique needs regarding sexuality education. While the topic of sexuality has received increased attention in the fields of intellectual and developmental disabilities generally, less consideration has focused on the unique needs of individuals with ASD specifically. This paper presents one position in support of sexuality education for children and adolescents with ASD. The nature of human sexuality is discussed to provide a context for the rights of individuals with ASD to learn about their sexuality. Further justification for providing sexuality education in terms of the unique characteristics of this population is offered in conjunction with potential consequences of failing to provide sexuality education. Lastly, information regarding a decision-making process for sexuality education curriculum is presented, including the responsibilities of families and professionals providing sexuality education.
Descriptors: Sex Education, Mental Retardation, Sexuality, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Special Needs Students, Guidelines, Children, Adolescents, Decision Making, Family Role, Sexual Abuse, Prevention, Interpersonal Competence, Child Rearing, Marriage, Health Behavior, Behavior Problems, Hygiene, Health Promotion, Social Development, Human Body, Intimacy, Social Attitudes, Civil Rights, Individualized Education Programs, Student Participation, Teamwork, Parent Role
Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Council for Exceptional Children. DDD, P.O. Box 3512, Fayetteville, AR 72702. Tel: 479-575-3326; Fax: 479-575-6676; Web site: http://www.dddcec.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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