Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Service

The purpose of this online, exploratory study was to assess parental attitudes and self-efficacy beliefs on the topic of sexual health education for children with ASD using two validated survey instruments. Results from 27 parent participants showed that overall parents felt all topics assessed were at least someone what important to sex education and they believed they were at least somewhat self-efficacious on providing education on the topics assessed to their child. Lack of participation indicates a need for further research to understand the role of ASD in parent-child communication about sex. Research investigating how to best provide sex education to people with ASD will only improve current education strategies and ultimately allow people with ASD to make informed decisions about their own sexuality and sexual behaviors.

Note: This study was part of a dissertation requirement for a Ph.D. in public health.