Abstract

A review of the evidence on the effectiveness of sexual education programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Elizabeth Koss, MOT, OTR/L and Amy Darragh, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH

APHA 2017 Annual Meeting & Expo (Nov. 4 - Nov. 8)

There is a paucity of literature regarding incidence and prevalence of STI/STDs in individuals with I/DD and available data is alarming. The rate of HIV in the I/DD population doubled from 1990 to 1992, which is likely a gross underestimate due to the lack of established protocols for reporting identified individuals. This points to a critical need for a sexual education that appropriately addresses the needs of individuals with I/DD. A systematic literature search included PubMED and CINAHL and used the following terms {Developmental OR Intellectual Disability AND sex} to analyze effectiveness of sexual education programs for individuals with I/DD. Programs specific to preventing sexual abuse or relationship-building were excluded. Of the 1667 citations reviewed, 50 abstracts were reviewed for eligibility and 15 articles were included. All levels of evidence, including two qualitative reviews, were included. The limited evidence supports the use of individualized education experiences, verbal prompts, and reduction of long sentences and abstract concepts. Other promising interventions include multimedia programs, computer-based interactive programs, and programs focused specifically on enhancing positive perspectives that enhance sexual self-determinism and health. Most interventions demonstrate improvements in sexual knowledge and some demonstrate changes in attitudes. The findings of this review demonstrate limited availability of adequate program structure, goals, and evaluation. The available literature points to a critical need for the development of a sexual education program based on established theories that are effective in addressing specific goals for individuals with I/DD and are replicable for future use.

Administer health education strategies, interventions and programs Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs