Interventions for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Who Engage in Inappropriate Sexual Behavior
Document Type
Presentation
Journal/Book Title/Conference
40th Annual Association of Behavior Analysis International Convention
Publisher
Association for Behavior Analysis
Location
Chicago, IL
Publication Date
5-1-2014
Abstract
Although inappropriate sexual behaviors among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities may often be considered a taboo topic, it is essential that practitioners are prepared to intervene when such behaviors occur. Inappropriate sexual behaviors are defined as a response class performed within an environment that deems the sexual behavior unacceptable either by societal standards and/or by consequence of the potential harm the behavior poses to self or others. Inappropriate sexual behaviors demonstrated among this population include behaviors such as public masturbation, public disrobing, and inappropriate sexual touching of others. We conducted a systematic search to identify studies that implemented a behavior analytic intervention to reduce inappropriate sexual behavior among participant(s) with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Results were analyzed in terms of (a) participant characteristics, (b) target behaviors, (c) intervention characteristics, and (d) study outcomes. Results conclude that a variety of both reinforcement and punishment techniques have been used across the literature to reduce inappropriate sexual behaviors. Practical implications for practitioners are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Kobylecky, A., Davis, T. N., Machalicek, W. A., Campbell, V. E., Pinkelman, S. E., & Scalzo, R. (2014, May). Interventions for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who engage in inappropriate sexual behavior. Poster presented at the 40thAnnual Association of Behavior Analysis International Convention. Chicago, IL.
