Healthy Relationships, Sexuality and Disability: Resource Guide 2013

Healthy Relationships, Sexuality and Disability: Resource Guide 2013

Prepared by a partnership between the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (MDDS)

This comprehensive guide developed by the MA Department of Public Health and the MA Department of Developmental Services contains resources to help children, teens and adults with intellectual, developmental or physical disabilities learn about sexual health and sexual abuse prevention. Through books, videos, and curricula, this practical Guide gives parents and providers who support developmentally disabled youth, tips on how to discuss sexuality, puberty, relationships, personal safety and sexual education. It provides excellent tools to help individuals with disabilities develop the knowledge and skills necessary for them to achieve their human right to healthy, respectful and equitable relationships free from abuse. 

Containing over 70 resources this guide covers the following topics:

  • Puberty and Human Development
  • Puberty and Human Development: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • General Sexual Education
  • Social Skills and Relationship Development
  • Sexual Orientation and Identity
  • Sexual Health and Human Rights
  • Sexual Abuse Prevention