Sexuality education is both a human right, and extremely important, yet is neglected often in clinical practice and research for those with disabilities. In particular, those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those with profound autism, often do not receive accessible, meaningful sex education across the lifespan. This talk will address how to set sexuality education goals for those with profound disabilities, and explore effective teaching and evaluation strategies for various learners. Information will be presented in a science-forward, sex-positive manner, focussing on real life applicability.

Learning Objectives:

1. Participants will describe the importance of sexuality education for all individuals
2. Participants will outline strategies to select, set, and assess goals in the area of sexuality education for learners with intellectual and developmental disabilities
3. Participants will demonstrate understanding of various effective teaching strategies in the area of sexuality education for learners with intellectual and developmental disabilities

About the Presenter

Jessica Cauchi

Jessica Cauchi is a registered behaviour analyst, living and working in Ontario Canada, as an Assistant Professor at Brock University. Jessica obtained her Ph.D from Endicott College, and is a doctoral level Board Certified Behaviour Analyst as well as a Certified Progressive Behaviour Analyst Autism Professional. Jessica is passionate about using the science of behaviour to improve the lives of others, which is evident in her teaching, research, and clinical practices. Her particular areas of focus are sexuality education for individuals with exceptional learning needs, teaching real life skills that improve the quality of life for recipients of behaviour analytic services, progressive ABA, and teaching rapport building.