Sexual behaviors

Sexual behaviors

Individuals with autism are sexual beings, just as
everyone else is.

However, because of their inability to control all
of their impulses, they may display behaviors that
are inappropriate in public.

This can be particularly difficult to deal with
as it can be embarrassing for parents to deal with.

This is something you will need to be direct and
proactive about.

There are social aspects of sexuality that will
need to be dealt with.

You can use social stories to teach about sexuality
as well as many other things. It is important that
your child understand good touch/bad touch.

They can be vulnerable in this area and you want
them to be prepared in order to reduce their risk.


In order to be proactive, you will need to think
ahead, and decide what is appropriate to teach your
child at each stage of development.

When talking about sexuality, use real terms.

Individuals with autism do not pick up on social
cues, so they need concrete terms about what you
are talking about.

Reinforce appropriate behavior, and when
inappropriate behavior occurs (masturbating in public)
redirect.

Plan ahead before going into the community.

Let them know exactly what is expected of them while
they are in the community.

Masturbating in public is inappropriate.

If your child is young and doesn't seem to comprehend,
give them something else to keep their hands busy.

Using behavior modification techniques can be effective.

For older children, adolescents, let them know that
it is okay to do that, but it needs to be done in private.

You need to decide that you will address the issue, and
not avoid it.

Set aside some time with your child to talk about
sexuality.

If you only respond when an incident occurs you may be
sending the wrong message to your child.

Find out what your child knows about sexuality, again
using direct questions.

Find out if your child has concerns or fears about sexuality.

Talk about what is "normal" sexual behavior, but also
et them know what is inappropriate.

Try to let your child know that you are comfortable and
that it is okay to have sexual feelings and it is OK to
talk about them.

If you still have concerns, talk to your child's school.

They may have some programs that can be helpful in teaching
more about sexuality.

Or you can seek the advice of a professional outside of
the school.

This is just one of the many tricks, tips and techniques
that you can use to cope with your Autistic child’s
behaviors that feature in my new book “The Parenting
Autism Resource Guide”.

The Parenting Autism Resource Guide: A Complete Resource Guide For Parents Who Have Children Diagnosed With Autism.