The Challenges Experienced by Parents Regarding Sexual Maturation of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Study

Masuri, Moein; Malekshahi, Farideh; Masoudi, Mozhgan

doi:10.22087/ijac.2024.498509.1038

The Challenges Experienced by Parents Regarding Sexual Maturation of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Study

Document Type : Research

Authors

Moein Masuri ¹

Farideh Malekshahi ²

Mozhgan Masoudi ³

¹ Lorestan University of Medical Sciences. Khorramabad, Iran

² Social Determinants of Health Research Center, School of Medicine. Lorestan University of Medical Sciences. Khorramabad, Iran

³ Social Determinants of Health Research Centre, Shahid Rahimi Hospital, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran

10.22087/ijac.2024.498509.1038

Abstract

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder exhibit sexual preferences comparable to those of their typically developing peers; however, their sexuality and sexual maturation are frequently overlooked. This qualitative study was conducted to ascertain parents' experiences of perceived challenges and problems related to the sexual maturation of children with autism spectrum disorder. This qualitative investigation utilized a study population comprising parents of children with autism spectrum disorder who met the inclusion criteria. The study was conducted in two autism education and rehabilitation centers in Khorramabad. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 20 parents and analyzed using a conventional content analysis approach. The findings revealed that 17 of the participating parents were female and 3 were male, with the average age of the affected children being 13.40±2.98 years. Seven subcategories were extracted from the study: lack of knowledge regarding sexual maturity of the affected individuals, lack of sexual education skills, concern about vulnerability, fear of social reactions, unclear future of sexual life, confrontation with sexual behaviors, and care deficiencies. Through the merging of similar subcategories, three main categories emerged: educational need, psychological stress, and ineffective actions. The primary challenges faced by parents in addressing the sexual maturity of their adolescent children with autism spectrum disorder stem from insufficient knowledge of autism spectrum disorder and the impact of this developmental condition on various aspects, particularly sexual maturity. Educating parents and children will contribute to improving the reproductive and sexual health of this vulnerable population.

Keywords

Autism

Puberty

Sexual Behavior

Challenges

Qualitative

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