This presentation was filmed at the 2016 CCBS Autism Conference in Buellton, California
About the presentation:
Persons with ASD are sexual beings. However, individual interest in sex or in developing an intimate sexual relationship with another person varies widely across individuals at all ability levels. Unfortunately, despite much discussion about decision making skills in the self-determination literature there continues to be dearth of research regarding best practices in sexuality education and training for persons with ASD that Behavior Analysis can provide. This workshop will provide an overview of sexuality education, from the professional and personal points of view, in ASD with an emphasis on safety, knowledge, and social understanding.
About the presenter:
Dr. Gerhardt has over 30 years experience utilizing the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis in support of adolescents and adults with ASD in educational, employment, residential, and community-based settings. He is the author or co-author of articles and book chapters on the needs of adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder and he has presented nationally and internationally on this topic. In addition, Dr. Gerhardt serves as Chairman of the Scientific Council for the Organization for Autism Research, on the Editorial Board of Behavior Analysis in Practice,and on numerous professional advisory boards. Dr. Gerhardt received his doctorate from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey’s Graduate School of Education.