Sexual Behavior in Adults with Autism

Byline: Mary E. Van Bourgondien (1), Nancy C. Reichle (1), Ann Palmer (1) Abstract: A survey of the sexual behavior of 89 adults with autism living in group homes in North Carolina found that the majority of individuals were engaging in some form of sexual behavior. Masturbation was the most common sexual behavior. However, person-oriented sexual behaviors with obvious signs of arousal were also present in one third of the sample. The relationship between sexual behavior and demographic variables and other types of behaviors is explored. Information regarding group home sexuality policies and procedures are described. Author Affiliation: (1) Division TEACCH, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Article History: Registration Date: 22/09/2004