Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 26, 2026

A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
Published on: July 31, 2017
An Exploratory Study of the Knowledge of Personal Safety Skills Among Children with Developmental Disabilities and
Hannah L Miller1, Kathryn M Pavlik1, Min Ah Kim2
1USC University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
Background:
This study assessed the knowledge of personal safety skills among children with developmental disabilities and their parents' perceptions of children's knowledge.
Method:
This exploratory study examined the mental health records of 37 children with developmental disabilities referred for an abuse risk reduction group in a community mental health setting. Qualitative analysis of children's responses to questions about personal safety skills (knowledge related to physical development and personal safety, an appropriate and inappropriate touch and safety skills to respond to an inappropriate touch) indicated participants' varied and inconsistent levels of knowledge.
Results:
Consistent with the literature, the results indicate risk factors for sexual abuse among children with developmental disabilities, including children's difficulty distinguishing between an appropriate and inappropriate touch and the lack of knowledge regarding appropriate venues for disclosing an inappropriate touch. Among parents, a lack of certainty regarding their children's knowledge and the ability to keep themselves safe was identified.
Conclusion:
Results support the need for education about personal safety for children with developmental disabilities and their families.
Related Concept Videos
Naturalistic Observations
Parenting Styles
Authoritarian Parenting
This style is strict and controlling, with little room for open dialogue. Authoritarian parents demand obedience and often enforce rules with minimal warmth. Children raised this way may lack social skills and initiative, usually comparing themselves to others unfavorably.
Authoritative...
Relationship with Parents: Attachment
Sources of Self-Esteem I: Family Experience
Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other
Parental Care

