Systematic Integrative Review: Sex Education for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Purpose People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) require comprehensive sexuality and relationship education (SRE) for healthy sexual development, which refers to the lifelong process of acquiring knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors around sexual health that foster well-being and personal fulfillment. In this emerging research field, our aim is to consolidate scientific literature findings and gain a clear understanding of existing gaps. We plan to achieve this by conducting a systematic integrative review, analyzing the development and design process of interventions for individuals with ASD or Developmental Disorder up to February 2023. Furthermore, we place significant emphasis on evaluating the effectiveness of programs for both participants and their families. This comprehensive approach allows us to analyze the overall impact of interventions and provide a more complete understanding of their effectiveness in practical contexts. Methods: A systematic search was conducted on seven databases: ProQuest Dissertation, Scopus, Web of Science, Dialnet, ERIC, PsycInfo, and Pubmed. 20 articles met the inclusion criteria (1 randomized controlled trial, 7 mixed methods, and 12 non-randomized). The methodological quality of the studies was assessed with Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT), version 2018. Results: The low quality of the studies does not allow us to confirm that the programs are effective in increasing the level of knowledge, although most of the studies reflect positive results that suggest that the participants have benefited from the training received. Conclusions: This review has allowed us to discover the existing deficiencies in this field, as well as to detect how they could be improved.