Full Description

Making good decisions about sexuality is a critical part of adulthood, but sometimes people with intellectual disabilities don't get the support or education they need to navigate this complex aspect of life.

This book gives social workers, teachers, and direct care staff the comprehensive information they need to educate people with disabilities about sexuality and to help them make the best possible choices across the lifespan.

Blending in-depth examination of legal and clinical issues with sensitive discussion of the emotional side of sexuality, expert contributors from diverse fields help readers:

• deliver meaningful, individualized, and culturally sensitive sexuality education
• understand parents' perspectives—and help them provide appropriate information and support to their child throughout development and maturation
• assist people with disabilities in managing risks associated with sexual activity
• use behavior interventions to encourage appropriate sexual expression
• help people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender validate their feelings and counter negative messages
• address issues related to medical care and intervention for people with disabilities

Going beyond the facts of life, this book has candid interviews and personal anecdotes that show how real-life couples with disabilities handle the joys and challenges of their relationships including courtship, sex, parenthood, disagreements, finances, and more.

Readers will also get examples of effective sexuality education techniques and vivid case studies that illustrate key points. With this frank, thorough, and highly readable guide, professionals will better advocate for people with disabilities and help them reap the social and emotional benefits of healthy, responsible, age-appropriate sexuality.