Exploring the sexual health and wellbeing of autistic people: from here onwards

Over the past five decades there has been a shift in the way research on sexuality and autism has approached the topic - from a more problem-oriented approach to an increased focus on how autistic people experience and enjoy their sexuality.
Since the inclusion of autistic voices in research, and even more so since the emergence of participatory and autistic-led studies, insights into the diversity of sexual interests, practices and ways of building romantic and sexual relationships have offered clues to promoting wellbeing. Research priorities, guidelines, comprehensive sexuality education, accessible information and support programmes for young people, adults and their parents have been developed, increasingly in collaboration with the autistic community. It is hoped that these changes have and will be further reflected in clinical practice.

However, a better understanding of the development of sexual and romantic experiences across the lifespan of autistic people could help to inform the next steps in promoting sexual health and wellbeing. In this presentation, I will discuss the current state of research on sexuality and romantic relationships and present some recent findings from a large survey study on sexual health in the Netherlands and from developmental interviews with autistic adults about their sexuality and relationships. I will discuss possible directions for future research and practice, with an emphasis on how this can contribute to the well-being of autistic people.