People with FASD, like everyone else, need to understand their sexuality and sexual needs in a healthy way. However, cognitive impairments, alongside wanting to fit in and please others, make people with FASD vulnerable to predators – while misunderstanding social cues can see them becoming coercive themselves without understanding why, or how it can get them into trouble.
Inappropriate Sexual Behaviour (ISB) can include hugging or touching, lack of physical boundary space, disrespect of privacy, sexual behaviour or remarks, masturbation in inappropriate settings, exposing oneself, voyeurism or obscene or offensive language.
Most types of ISB can be mitigated by open discussion and clear boundaries, which must be constantly reinforced as those with FASD transition into adulthood.
• American fostering support charity, Creating a Family, has a great 'Tipsheet' about ISB here.
• Read 15 tips about FASD and sex from the Edmonton Fetal Alcohol Network in Canada here.
CanFASD, the Canadian National FASD research agency, produced an issue paper in 2018 on ISB in those with FASD. The purpose of this was "to highlight an overview of the current existing research conducted in this area and offer implications for individuals, families, caregivers, and policy makers." It is important reading – here are a few samples of their findings.
• Researchers estimated that ISBs are displayed by 45%-52% of adults with FASD. Rates of ISB associated with FASD appear to increase over the lifespan, with studies demonstrating the rates of ISB in children (ages 6-11) at 39%, 42% in adolescence (ages 12-20), and up to of 65% in adult males.
• The average age when ISB initially presents is approximately 10 years old, although the age of emergence can vary.
• Individuals with developmental disabilities should receive sexual health education which is specifically informed by the person’s needs and disability.
• It is essential that FASD-informed approaches towards adopting healthy sexuality and properly addressing ISB are implemented to help individuals with FASD as part of holistic support.
The research concluded:
"ISB is frequently an adverse life outcome for individuals with FASD ... there is an obvious need for future research to address the significant gaps in this area. Future research should focus on investigations that better outline the cause of ISB in this population, as well as the assessment of FASD and ISB. Researchers also need to examine sex offender treatment programs for individuals with FASD and improve understanding about FASD amongst professionals addressing ISB, specifically those within legal settings contending with those experiencing trouble with the law as a result of ISB."
Click here to download and read this important paper.
