Barriers to Sex Education for Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Recommended Interventions

• In Event: 47.096 - MTCC Roundtable Session 20
  In Roundtable Session: 47.096-11 - Beyond the Schoolhouse Door: Full Participation for Individuals With Disabilities

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of sex education for individuals with intellectual (ID) and developmental (DD) disabilities. These individuals are not receiving proper sex education in school or at home. Misconceptions and stereotypes (e.g., asexual, naïve) about individuals with ID and DD also lead to barriers to their access to quality sex education and social acceptance as sexual beings. Prior research shows individuals with ID exhibit low levels of knowledge of sexuality (e.g., less experience with dating and intimacy) and fewer opportunities to learn about sexuality (Dukes & McGuire, 2009). Recommended sex education curricula and future directions are provided as a guide to better serve this population.

Authors

• Kathleen Doyle, Fordham Graduate School of Education

• Su-Je Cho, Fordham University

• Holly Rittenhouse, Fordham University