How to Respond to Sexualized Acts

In this clear-sighted and research-based guide Kate Reynolds delivers preventive and responsive tools that can be used to help neurodivergent individuals who engage in sexualized acts in childhood through to adulthood before referral to psychiatric services or involvement of law enforcement.

Advice and guidance for parents and frontline workers supporting neurodivergent children and young people who are displaying sexualised behaviours. Includes practical strategies to unpick complex behaviours in a developmentally-appropriate way.

Relationships and sexuality are key elements of human development, and neurodivergent individuals may need additional support to navigate them safely. Grounded in peer-reviewed research and work with key academics and practitioners, Kate Reynolds guides families and frontline staff through responding to and preventing sexualized acts. She provides practical advice and strategies to effectively and positively support individuals at an early stage, before psychiatric services or law enforcement become involved.

The book covers attitudes and common responses to sexualized acts, the role of applied behavioral analysis, the neurodiversity movement and structural issues which impact healthy relationships and sexual development. Each chapter has an easy-read summary to help parents who may have a learning difficulty and to allow staff to create accessible resources.

Emphasising the importance of communication, the need for consistent support for individuals and with an emphasis on human rights, the book explores how and when families and frontline staff can work together to support the people they care for.