Chapter 7: Social and Sexual Issues

The Importance of Developing and Acquiring Social Skills Why is it important for all children to develop social skills? What factors result in many children with disabilities being socially isolated? Who do most children learn their social skills from?

How Parents and Professionals can Help Widen Social Experiences and Avoid Social Mistakes What experiences can parents and professionals provide that can help widen a disabled child’s social circle? What are the two types of social mistakes that many individuals with disabilities need special help to avoid? What information can we, as special educators, present to parents to help handle these social mistakes?

Misconceptions About Sexuality and Disability What are some of the common misconceptions that society has about the sexuality of children with disabilities? What are the truths behind these misconceptions?

Defining Sexuality What does human sexuality include? What are the stages of human sexual development?

Sexuality Education What areas should comprehensive sexuality education address? What are the goals of comprehensive sexuality education?

Suggestions for Teaching Children and Youth About Sexuality What are some suggestions for teaching children about sexuality? What can parents and professionals do to help children with disabilities improve self-esteem with regard to body image?

Early Signs of Puberty What are some early signs of puberty? Which topics should be addressed with children approaching puberty?

Issues to Address with the Adolescent What are some topics that should be addressed with adolescent’s with disabilities? Which professionals can help parents in addressing these issues?

How Particular Disabilities Affect Sexuality and Sexuality Education How can special educators help students with disabilities about the realities of adult relationships?