Promoting sexuality across the life span for individuals with I/DD

2007

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Ailey, S.A., Marks, B.A., Crisp, C., & Hahn, J.E. (2003). Promoting sexuality across the life span for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Nursing Clinics of North America: Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 38(2), 229-252. Promoting sexuality among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) across the life span is especially critical, because these individuals have been systematically and routinely denied the right to develop and express their sexuality. This article reviews the structural and attitudinal barriers that prevent individuals with I/DD from developing and perceiving themselves as sexual beings, along with the philosophical underpinnings that have previously guided sex education programs. The paradigm shifts that are advancing ways to promote sexuality and sexual identity among individuals with I/DD are delineated, with specific content areas for sexuality education. Finally, the discussion illuminates strategies to teach advocacy skills and increase knowledge regarding sexuality for individuals with I/DD.

Peer-reviewed publications in scholarly journals Published/In Press

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