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12-04-2023 | Original Paper

Adapting the Tackling Teenage Training Sex Education Program for Autistic Adults in the US: A Pilot Study

Auteurs: Eileen T. Crehan, Xihan Yang, Simone Dufresne, Jamie Barstein, Laurie Stephens, Linda Dekker, Kirstin Greaves-Lord

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders | Uitgave 6/2024

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Abstract

Despite the established need for sexuality and relationship programming for autistic adults, there are extremely limited curricula for this population. This pilot study used an evidence-based sexuality and relationship education program for autistic adolescents (Tackling Teenage Training) as the basis for an adult-focused virtual psychoeducational group. Qualitative feedback, quantitative ratings of the programming, and behavioral surveys from participants were collected. Nine participants completed the program, and corresponding pre and post measures. Highly rated topics, for example gender identity and online dating, were consistent with previous research on what autistic adults want from a sexuality and relationship education program. Future programming should incorporate increased attention to themes and topics highlighted by participants, and should utilize the teaching tools (e.g., role play, peer discussions) identified as useful by the participants.
Voetnoten
1
Autism diagnosis was confirmed by a provider.
 
2
Studies have shown that autistic young adults often do not score significantly differently on sex education knowledge quizzes compared to neurotypical peers (Hannah & Stagg, 2016; Ousley & Mesibov, 1991). Group differences emerge, however, when concepts such as attitudes toward SRE and need to access more SRE (e.g., through discussions with others/resources), or social applications of sexuality and relationship topics (Mehzabin & Stokes, 2011). The TTI was not used as an outcome in the original TTT RCT. However, the TTI was utilized here due to the relevance of the subscales to prior findings of SRE experiences for autistic adults (e.g., assessing attitudes, access, and social behaviors).
 
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Metagegevens
Titel
Adapting the Tackling Teenage Training Sex Education Program for Autistic Adults in the US: A Pilot Study
Auteurs
Eileen T. Crehan
Xihan Yang
Simone Dufresne
Jamie Barstein
Laurie Stephens
Linda Dekker
Kirstin Greaves-Lord
Publicatiedatum
12-04-2023
Uitgeverij
Springer US
Gepubliceerd in
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders / Uitgave 6/2024
Print ISSN: 0162-3257
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-3432
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-023-05962-3