Course Overview

This course focuses on providing support and treatment for adults in residential facilities, particularly individuals with a history of sexual offenses or dysfunctional sexual behavior (DSB). Difficulties in sexual development have aversive effects on the individuals involved as well as the community, legal and correctional institutions, and mental and behavioral healthcare systems. Research and current resources for care providers are limited compared to training available for other maladaptive behaviors and direct support for residential consumers is even more difficult to access. Adults in community care facilities often have developmental disabilities or are dually diagnosed with additional

mental health issues that exacerbate the risk of DSB.

This course is the first part of a series aimed at increasing understanding of healthy sexual health development and conceptualization of how DSB may manifest. Direct support professionals will receive an overview of current research on adults who exhibit DSB, a discussion of fundamentals and techniques proven to help with sexual development, and establish skills necessary to effectively support individuals.