Exploring Sexual Satisfaction in Autistic Individuals and its Relationship with Interoception and Alexithymia
Sexuality has multiple dimensions, in this presentation emphasis will be placed on the dimension of obtaining pleasure, from a sexual rights approach, understanding “sexual pleasure” as those pleasant physical sensations, such as genital arousal, orgasm and the erotic experience that depends not only on physical stimulation but also on the meaning attributed to it.
In autistic adults, the altered perception of the body’s internal sensations (interoception) can hinder the identification of physiological and emotional responses related to sexual arousal, which can influence sexual satisfaction. On the other hand, studies have shown that autistic adults have a higher prevalence of alexithymia compared to the general population, which can imply intrapersonal challenges such as understanding and expressing their sexual needs and desires, as well as interpersonal ones in sexual communication.
Therefore, sexual satisfaction in autistic individuals is influenced by interoception and alexithymia and addressing these aspects through sensory and educational strategies can improve the quality of life of autistic people and their sexual well-being, considering that autistic adolescents and adults have far fewer sexual experiences than their neurotypical peers despite their expressed sexual interest. It is fundamental to promote full, safe and healthy sexual experiences, remembering that sexual rights are also human rights.
After participating in this session, attendees should be able to:
- Describe how the altered perception of internal bodily sensations (interoception)influences sexual satisfaction in autistic individuals.
- Describe how the difficulty in identifying and describing emotions (alexithymia)influences sexual satisfaction in autistic individuals.
- Identify intrapersonal and interpersonal challenges that autistic adults may experience in sexual communication.
- Incorporate practices promoting sexual rights and teaching client self-advocacy as human rights into Occupational and Speech Language Therapy practice.
Presented and recorded at the Virtual Summit: Sensory Health in Autism June 12-14, 2024
The views expressed in the following presentation are those of the presenter and do not necessarily reflect those of STAR Institute.
Level: Introductory
Length: 75 minutes
Timeframe for access: Once you first choose to "Launch" this course, you will have 45 days to access the content as often as you like. Your 45-day window for access will not begin until you first click the "Launch" button.
Presenter:
Claudia Andrea Reveco Zamora
Occupational Therapist & Sexologist
Chile
As a specialist dedicated to the well-being of neurodivergent individuals, with a particular focus on the autistic spectrum, I have devoted over a decade to facilitating processes of self-awareness, identification, and diagnosis. My therapeutic approach is centered on the individual and grounded in mental health, gender perspective, intersectionality, and rights. Throughout my career, I have integrated various tools such as Sensory Integration, Occupational Therapy, Trauma-informed Therapy, Sexology Sciences, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Innovation Strategies, and Empowerment.
Furthermore, I am actively engaged in specialized training in Compassion Focused Therapy and am currently pursuing my second Master's in Neuroscience of Happiness. I emphasize my commitment as a trans affirmative professional, supporting diversity in all its manifestations.
In my role as a university lecturer in postgraduate and specialization programs, I lead modules on the Autistic Spectrum and Transition to Active Adult Life in the Master's in Didactic Strategies in Autism at U.SEK. I have been interviewed and contributed as an OT-Sexologist and disseminator in notable publications such as Revista Paula (La Tercera newspaper, Chile), El Mostrador (digital newspaper, Chile), and Her Global Impact Magazine (Innovation Academy HGI, International). Additionally, I had the honor of participating in the documentary "Extraordinaries: united in neurodiversity" produced in Chile by Kimun, a creative production company.
With experience in university teaching for Occupational Therapy, Social Work, and Psychology programs, as well as conducting training sessions for professional teams in both public and private healthcare services and education teams in various settings, urban and rural, my passion for learning and teaching is evident in every aspect of my work.
As an additional note, I actively participate in the autistic and high-capacity community, identifying more broadly within the neuroqueer community. This central aspect of my identity adds significant value to my work, as I tirelessly strive for, with, and alongside my community.
Presenter Disclosure:
- Financial: Claudia received an honorarium for her presentation.
- Non-Financial: Claudia has a family member who is autistic.
- There are no other relevant financial or nonfinancial relationships to disclose.
Instructional Methods:
PowerPoint Lecture, Q&A Session
Level:
Introductory
Who should attend:
Occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, physical therapists, speech language pathologists, educators, child development specialists, mental health professionals, parents, caregivers, and other individuals seeking a better understanding of Sensory Processing in Autism.
Continuing Education Credits:
Course Completion Requirements:
Upon completing each individual course, participants must pass a brief quiz. Passing is getting at least an 80% score.
Individuals who do not meet both requirements will not receive AOTA or ASHA CEUs.
Cancellation Policy:
Because this program is recorded and accessible at your convenience, cancellations are not typically accepted. Please contact education@sensoryheatlh.org if you have any questions or concerns.
Do you have a disability that would require special accommodation?
Please contact us at education@sensoryhealth.org and describe how we can help accommodate your needs.
The views expressed in the following presentation are those of the presenter and do not necessarily reflect those of STAR Institute.
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