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Article
Sexuality of Children and Adolescents With Developmental Disabilities
Pediatrics
  • Nancy A. Murphy
  • Ellen R. Elias
  • Council on Children With Disabilities, Council on Children With Disabilities
  • John C. Duby, Wright State University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-1-2006
Abstract

Children and adolescents with developmental disabilities, like all children, are sexual persons. However, attention to their complex medical and functional issues often consumes time that might otherwise be invested in addressing the anatomic, physiologic, emotional, and social aspects of their developing sexuality. This report discusses issues of puberty, contraception, psychosexual development, sexual abuse, and sexuality education specific to children and adolescents with disabilities and their families. Pediatricians, in the context of the medical home, are encouraged to discuss issues of sexuality on a regular basis, ensure the privacy of each child and adolescent, promote self-care and social independence among persons with disabilities, advocate for appropriate sexuality education, and provide ongoing education for children and adolescents with developmental disabilities and their families.

DOI
10.1542/peds.2006-1115
Citation Information
Nancy A. Murphy, Ellen R. Elias, Council on Children With Disabilities and John C. Duby. "Sexuality of Children and Adolescents With Developmental Disabilities" Pediatrics Vol. 118 Iss. 1 (2006) p. 398 - 403 ISSN: 0031-4005
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/john-duby/35/