Parents as Primary Sexuality Educators for Adolescents and Adults With Down Syndrome: A Mixed Methods Examination of the Home B.A.S.E for Intellectual Disabilities Workshop

Abstract

Abstract Limited research exists on the effectiveness of in-person workshops to help parents talk about sexuality. This study utilizes a parallel mixed methods design to examine the impact of the Home Based Adolescent Sexuality Education (B.A.S.E) for Intellectual Disabilities workshop with 26 parents of individuals with Down syndrome. Quantitative data showed a significant decrease in negative attitudes surrounding sexuality and disability and a significant increase in parents’ self-efficacy discussing sexuality topics. Qualitative data supported these findings, further illuminating parents’ changed behavior. Home B.A.S.E for Intellectual Disabilities is a promising approach to support parents as the primary sexuality educators for their children with intellectual disabilities.