Association for Behavior Analysis International

Individuals with Autism often receive inadequate instruction surrounding sexuality and building healthy relationships. Many recognize the importance of sexuality education; however, feel unprepared to teach this subject to those with ASD. When sex education is provided, it is often implemented reactively, when a behavior is considered problematic rather than proactively. Instruction tends to lack essential information to support individuals in understanding their personal sexuality and how to develop romantic relationships. One way to make sexuality education more accessible is by providing parents, caregivers and professionals evidence-based resources and strategies to effectively teach these skills. In this panel, the following topics may be discussed: (a) the facts and myths surrounding teaching individuals with ASD about sexuality and relationships; (b) current literature on caregiver/teacher perceptions of sexuality and ASD; (c) the importance of incorporating critical relationship skills into education; and (d) evidence-based strategies that can be used to teach healthy relationship skills. Attendees will be provided with a list of resources that they can use to increase the quality of their own instruction surrounding sexuality and building healthy relationships.

Board certified behavior analysts; licensed psychologists; graduate students.