Dating, Sexuality & Safety
Dating and Sexuality:
On this website we stress respect in relationships, whether of a romantic nature or not. We suggest that young people need to determine their values and personal standards in the areas of dating and sexuality with family members and others whom they trust. Young people who lack guidance and education in these areas are at a disadvantage. Educators may find useful materials in the Dating and Sexuality sections for Young Adults and Families.
A Course on Sexuality Can Be Helpful
Patrick suggests taking a course on sexuality. He tells how it helped him. He learned a lot about sexuality and relationships. He learned about avoiding diseases that can be passed on by sexual contact. He learned that it is important to take time to get to know the other person. Éric and Patrick agree that the most important thing in relationships is the pleasure you get from being together.
Download TranscriptEducators will be familiar with prescribed curricula on sexuality which today, is often taught from the early grades. Some of these materials may be adapted for people who have intellectual disabilities.
This teaching tool is meant to help explain the different social boundaries that come with relationships of varying intimacy.
This document gives you a list of resources that can help you teach young adults with disabilities about sexuality.
Safety:
Concerns about safety are multi-dimensional: physical safety while out and about, safety in relationships, internet safety. Families often express very strong concerns in these area. Education provides the best insurance against harm and abuse. Teachers have an important role to play in this along with parents and support people. We provide a substantial section on Safety for young adults with particular attention to safety in relationships, whether out with friends or dating or on the internet.
This document provides more information and links to a workshop and resources focusing on safety for women with intellectual disabilities.
This book by Dr. Jed Baker discusses ways to prevent cyber abuse in the form of cyber bullying, online sexual predators, and internet scams against people with Autism.