posted 11-06-02

New Book Discusses Autism and Sexuality

Although some find it somewhat difficult to absorb, people with disabilities do fall in love and sometimes wish to be intimate. But if the common experiences, frustrations and barriers prevalent in the disabled community are to be discussed in an open, honest forum, then the issue of sexuality must be included in such meaningful dialogue.

A newly-written book, by a husband and wife who are both autistic, reaffirms that the facts of life, particularly concerning those who have autism, Down's Syndrome or possibly any other disability, are that these individuals have a healthy and normal sex drive as do everyone else.

Specifically, in the case of autism, the authors conclude it is the individual's ability to understand one's own desires that go hand-in hand with any normal activity that may be impaired.

Jerry Newport and his wife, Mary Meinel-Newport, were both diagnosed with a form of autism called Asperger's Syndrome as adults, but have both spent much of their lives trying to be "normal," yet were never quite able to fit in. Their collaborative effort, Autism-Asperger's & Sexuality, is considered to be a groundbreaking, personal look at the sexual challenges of those diagnosed with autism and other similar developmental disorders. This book has enabled them to share their firsthand knowledge of the challenges related to sexual activity, thus helping young adults and their caregivers in dealing with this sensitive issue.

The authors discuss what parents of teens with disabilities should say and when to say it, dating and marriage among the mentally disabled and sexual abuse among those with mental disabilities.

The publisher's recommend that parents read this book thoroughly before offering it to young people with developmental disabilities. Furthermore, this book may provide an initial, solid background for psychologists, pediatrician, therapists and parents who may be seeking support for articles and features on this topic.