Useful links to trusted online platforms
Iinformation for young people with learning disabilities and their families to understand and talk about relationships and sex developed by Mencap can be found here
Useful information for young people written by a young person about relationships can be found here
Videos to support understanding and discussion about managing sexual behaviour
- Short video where parents and experts talk about sexuality for autistic teenagers and young people. You’ll hear why it’s a good idea to talk about sexuality before autistic children start thinking about sex. You’ll also get tips and ideas for talking to your autistic child about sexuality and changing relationships in a way your child can understand - https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/teenagers-autism-videos/sexuality-autistic-teens-tips
LGBTQ+ resources
Extracted from the NAS website: Autism and gender identity
What is sexuality?
Sexuality is diverse, and there are many different types. It can take time to figure out the sexuality that fits you best. And your sexuality can change over time.
Coming to terms with your sexuality can be a very liberating, exciting and positive experience. Sexuality is an important part of who you are. There is no right or wrong, it’s about what’s right for you.
Some people have a hard time accepting others who are different to themselves. If someone gives you a hard time about your sexuality, it’s good to talk to someone about it. You don’t need to deal with it by yourself.
What is gender identity?
How someone feels about their gender is known as gender identity. Some people identify as the sex they were assigned with at birth, others don’t. Some people may be assigned male at birth but identify as female. Some may be assigned female but identify as male, or people may identify as neither female nor male. Some people may feel both male and female at different times. We all express our gender in different ways, for example in how we dress and act.
Gender dysphoria
People may experience discomfort or distress when their assigned sex is different from the gender they identify with – this is known as gender dysphoria (GD). There is some evidence to show a link between gender dysphoria and autism, and that autistic people may be more likely than other people to have gender dysphoria. However, there is little evidence about the reason(s) why, and some recent research suggests the link between autism and gender dysphoria is not so clear. More research is needed. More research is also required to develop and test assessment tools, support and treatment for autistic people experiencing gender dysphoria.
Links to LGBTQ+ organisations:
There are many organisations that have helpful information for both young people and families and below are some links you may find informative:
BOOKS ON LBGT and ASD
Trans and Autistic: Noah Adams and Bridget Liang
Uncomfortable Labels: My life as a gay autistic trans woman: Laura Kate Dale
The art of being normal: Lisa Williamson