Availability of Training Programmes on Sexuality for Adolescents with Severe Disabilities: A Review

Abstract

Objectives: This chapter is broadly based on examining the sexuality education programmes available in global literature for adolescents with severe disabilities, for whom, desires, the need for meaningful relationships and interest in their own and others’ bodies, are no different than their peers, and have been highlighted as a human right. Research design: A systematic review was conducted using five electronic databases. Inclusion criteria were children or adolescents with disabilities, who were exposed to sexuality education programmes. The curriculum foundations, content, delivery, and applicability to adolescents with severe disabilities were considered. Results: Twelve studies were identified which met the inclusion criteria. In general, the programmes did not have strong theoretical foundations, nor did they meet suggested curriculum criteria. Most focused on abuse prevention, and neglected the positive cognitive emotional, social interactive and physical aspects of sexuality. Delivery strategies were better represented and included multimodal communication, the use of concrete materials, social stories, instruction, modelling, role-play, repetition and review. Absent in delivery strategies were pace and complexity adaptations and the use of real-life situations. Policy recommendations: Based on this review it is recommended that students with severe disabilities should be provided with ongoing sexuality education beginning in early childhood in an age and developmentally appropriate format, for example, social stories for adolescents, or concrete objects for students with lower developmental ages. The programmes used for sexuality education need to be developed with persons with severe disabilities and their families, and adapted to meet their specific learning needs. Research recommendations: For researchers and educators alike, the need to develop theoretically sound programmes which cover the full extent of sexuality, with young persons with disabilities, and their families was strongly emphasised.