Training Program Definition

This course is designed to support individuals with disabilities and their caregivers—whether family members or professionals—in understanding how to manage puberty and sexual challenges faced by people with disabilities, especially those with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The course will enhance participants’ skills in appropriately addressing sexual issues from a behavioral and cognitive analytical perspective, and will contribute to raising societal awareness around these sensitive matters. It will be presented in a manner consistent with Arab traditions and cultural values.

Target Audience

• Families of persons with disabilities

• Professionals working in disability rehabilitation centers

• Staff in inclusive education schools

• Caregivers in residential institutions for people with disabilities

• Psychologists and psychological counselors

• Rehabilitation specialists in all fields

• Anyone in the community interested in the field of disability

At the end of the course, participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance, and optionally a Continuing Education Certificate
(10 training hours)
Available with additional fees for holders of ABAT / QASP-S / QBA certifications.

Course Duration
10 training hours, over 3 sessions
Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Training Topics

• Introduction to puberty and adolescence among individuals with disabilities, especially intellectual disabilities and ASD

• Understanding what sexual education is, its justification, and the importance and goals of providing it to adolescents with disabilities

• Correcting misconceptions and attitudes among parents, specialists, and teachers regarding sexual education for adolescents with disabilities

• Content of sexual education programs and the roles of parents, specialists, and educators

• Puberty and the physical manifestations of sexual maturity in adolescents with disabilities, and how to teach them about gender differences and acceptance of their gender role

• Teaching adolescents with disabilities personal hygiene related to their genital and sensitive areas

• Methods for teaching adolescents with disabilities social skills (public and private behaviors) related to sexual behavior

• Identifying the most common sexual challenges among adolescents with disabilities

• How to deal with masturbation in adolescents with disabilities

• Reducing issues like exhibitionism (undressing in front of others), repetitive touching, and inappropriate touching of others’ private parts

• Understanding sexual abuse/exploitation of individuals with disabilities and strategies to prevent it

• Introduction to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and how to educate adolescents with disabilities on prevention