Association for Behavior Analysis International

Behavior analysts can employ scientifically supported treatments to build functional skills related to sexuality, as well as effectively decrease levels of sexual problem behaviors. Sexual behaviors are comparable to other types of human responding in that they can be understood as resulting from similar processes, but they are unique because of their sensitive aspects on both personal and cultural levels. The purpose of this presentation is to discuss how behavior-analytic techniques have been, and can be, used to improve peoples sexual well-being and minimize potential risk of harm. This presentation will also explore the current roles that behavior analysts play in the assessment and treatment of sexual behavior issues and investigate strategies that may promote high-quality, ethical work in this area.

Sexual abuse toward individuals with developmental disabilities is an increasing concern as they may be more susceptible to abuse than the general population (Lumley et al., 1998). Sobsey and Doe (1991) reported that 49% of developmentally disabled individuals will be a victim of 10 or more incidences of sexual abuse in his or her lifetime. Previous research has examined preventive procedures which include behavioral skills training in both structured and naturalistic settings (e.g., Lumley et al., 1998; Miltenberger, Roberts, Ellingson, & Galensky, 1999). The purpose of this presentation was to review previous research on behavior-analytic preventive programs and treatment for sexually abused individuals with developmental disabilities. In addition, this presentation described the barriers of reporting sexual abuse cases, the factors that make individuals with developmental disabilities more susceptible to sexual abuse, and the strategies for identifying the signs of abuse. Discussion will also include recommendations for graduate school programs to teach future behavior analysts how to detect and implement preventive methods to decrease sexual abuse in the developmentally disabled community.

The field of behavior analysis lacks training programs and certifications specific to the analysis and treatment of sexual behavior, despite the typical behavior analysts occasional inclusion of sexual behavior in treatment goals. Existing training programs and certifications are not behavior-analytic, and few behavior analysts involve themselves in them. This project aimed to assess how STEP SIG could support behavior analysts who treat sexual behavior in equipping them with training specific to their needs. We constructed a survey to gather information in key areas such as: how many behavior analysts assess and treat sexual behavior, how often do so, what behavioral issues are most common, and what resources they would find helpful in their work (e.g., ethics training, measurement systems, behavior-analytic resources such as libraries and online clinical communities, creation of ABA certification program to promote competent and ethical treatment). Results indicated high variability in training and experience working with sexual behavior, and multiple participants indicated a need for additional resources and training in this area. The results of this survey will inform future projects completed by STEP SIG to offer support to behavior analysts and promote the use of effective, ethical techniques in the treatment of sexual behavior.