Identifying Effective Methods for Teaching Sex Education to Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Sex education for individuals with intellectual disabilities is important. However, our knowledge about effective methods for teaching sex education to this population is limited. We report the results of a systematic review identifying methods for sex education programs aimed at individuals with intellectual disabilities. In all, 20 articles were included that met the criteria set in terms of topic-the effectiveness of sex education programs-and population of interest-individuals with intellectual disabilities. In these articles, methods for increasing knowledge and for improving skills and attitudes were reported. However, the studies revealed that generalization of skills to real-life situations was often not achieved. There are indications that the maintenance of knowledge and skills still needs extra attention. Moreover, detailed descriptions of the program materials, program goals, and methods used in the programs were often lacking in the reports. Although there is some evidence for methods that may improve knowledge, attitudes, and skills with regard to sex education aimed at individuals with intellectual disabilities, due to the lack of detailed descriptions provided it is unclear under which conditions these methods work. We therefore suggest that authors provide additional detail about methods in future publications or in online supplements.

An Exploratory Study of the Knowledge of Personal Safety Skills Among Children with Developmental Disabilities and Their Parents

“…; Schaafsma et al . ). A substantial body of literature speaks to the need for and the potential effectiveness of sexual abuse prevention programmes for individuals with developmental disabilities (Muccigrosso ; Whitehouse & McCabe ; Caspar & Glidden ; Hayashi et al .…”

“…There is evidence that sex education effectively increases knowledge and safety awareness among persons with developmental disabilities (Gougeon ; Schaafsma et al . ).…”

Sex Education Programs Focused on “Protection” and “Prevention” with Little Attention Given to Supporting People to Develop Healthy, Positive Sexual Relationships

“…Schaafsma et al (2014) are right to ask why so much detail is missing from the published programs and to argue for a re-examination of what is being presented and its impact on the lives of participants.…”

“…People with learning disabilities are more likely to experience sexual abuse than their non-disabled peers (Hughes et al, 2012), and there is evidence to suggest that their often low levels of knowledge about sexuality and relationships can impede their recognition of abuse situations, understanding of practical information about safer sex, and the development of positive attitudes to sexual expression (Schaafsma, Kok, Stoffelen, & Curfs, 2014).…”

“…Schaafsma et al (2014) have undertaken a systematic review of published studies that investigated the effectiveness of sex education programs and educational materials specifically developed for people with mild or moderate learning disabilities. A literature search identified 20 such studies.…”