Abstract
Individuals on the autism spectrum are sexual beings with the same needs, wants, quirks, and desires as neurotypical individuals. Thankfully, the topics of sexuality and sex education with autistic individuals have, as of late, occasioned a significant interest from family members, professionals, and, of course, those on the spectrum. This is a very good thing as it has implications for individual quality of life, personal identity, happiness, relationships, and personal safety. Unfortunately, this increased interest is countered by the absence of even a limited body of research-based, practical guidance as to what to teach, how to teach, or when to teach sex education as a function of each individual’s place on the autism spectrum. This chapter provides an overview of what the research currently tells us about sexuality and individuals on the autism spectrum and offers a brief overview of how society has historically denied, restricted, and punished that sexuality. Recommendations for research are included.
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Gerhardt, P.F., Cauchi, J., Gravino, A. (2022). Sexuality and Sexuality Education with Individuals with Autism: What You Should Know But Probably Don’t. In: Leaf, J.B., Cihon, J.H., Ferguson, J.L., Gerhardt, P.F. (eds) Handbook of Quality of Life for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism and Child Psychopathology Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-98507-3_23
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