Parents' experiences and support needs regarding sexuality education for children with special needs: A qualitative descriptive study

Abstract

This study aims to examine the experiences, perceptions, and support needs of parents regarding sexual education for children with special needs. The research was conducted using a qualitative descriptive design. The study group consists of 25 parents residing in Bursa, Türkiye, who have children with various special needs (e.g., Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Down Syndrome). Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that many parents consider sexual education essential, primarily associating this necessity with the need for “protection from abuse and safety.” It was determined that 80% of the parents had not received any prior training on this subject, yet almost all expressed a critical need for expert support and comprehensive education. Parents reported struggling to approach the topic due to limited knowledge and societal taboos. In conclusion, while parents recognize sexual education as a vital need, they experience significant challenges in practice. Accordingly, it is recommended to develop individualized education programs through strong collaboration among families, educators, and experts to empower parents and ensure the safety of individuals with special needs.