Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 15, 2026
05:32
Comparing Eye-tracking Data of Children with High-functioning ASD, Comorbid ADHD, and of a Control Watching Social Videos
Published on: December 7, 2018
9.8K
Sexuality in High-Functioning Autism: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Laura A Pecora1, Gary B Mesibov2, Mark A Stokes3
1School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood, 3125, Australia. lpecora@deakin.edu.au.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|August 28, 2016
Summary
Sexuality in High-Functioning Autism (HFA) differs between sexes. Females with HFA experienced more adverse sexual events, while males reported higher sexual desire and activity.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Human Sexuality
Background:
- Sexuality in High-Functioning Autism (HFA) remains under-researched.
- Previous studies have not fully explored the impact of sexual experiences on HFA individuals' functioning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze existing research on sexuality in High-Functioning Autism.
- To characterize sexual understanding, experiences, desire, and behavior in males and females with HFA.
Main Methods:
- A systematic database search identified 27 relevant observational and cross-sectional studies.
- A random-effects meta-analysis pooled data from 9 eligible studies using standardized mean differences.
Main Results:
- Females with HFA demonstrated higher sexual understanding but endured more adverse sexual experiences than males with HFA and neurotypical individuals.
- Males with HFA reported increased desire for and engagement in solitary and dyadic sexual activities.
Conclusions:
- This meta-analysis offers initial insights into the distinct sexual profiles of males and females with HFA.
- Further research is crucial to comprehensively understand and support the sexual and romantic functioning of individuals with HFA.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
1.5K
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
1.5K
01:26Modeling in Therapy
662
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
662
01:43Sex-linked Disorders
110.4K
Like autosomes, sex chromosomes contain a variety of genes necessary for normal body function. When a mutation in one of these genes results in biological deficits, the disorder is considered sex-linked.
110.4K
01:43Sex Linked Disorders
28.6K
28.6K
01:14Psychosexual Theory of Development
3.1K
Sigmund Freud's psychosexual theory of development suggests that early childhood experiences significantly shape personality and behavior. Freud proposed that development is discontinuous, occurring in five distinct stages, each defined by a focus on different erogenous zones. He believed that failure to resolve the conflicts specific to each stage successfully could result in fixation, potentially influencing behavior as adults.
The Five Stages of Psychosexual Development
Freud's psychosexual...
The Five Stages of Psychosexual Development
Freud's psychosexual...
3.1K
02:45The Ratio of X Chromosome to Autosomes
10.0K
In most organisms, sex is determined by the ratio of X and Y chromosomes. However, in some organisms, such as Drosophila and C.elegans, sex is determined by the ratio of the number of X chromosomes to the number of sets of autosomes. The Y chromosome in Drosophila is active but does not determine sex. It contains genes responsible for the production of sperms in adult flies.
Normal male Drosophila has a ratio of one X chromosome to two sets of autosomes. In contrast, normal female...
Normal male Drosophila has a ratio of one X chromosome to two sets of autosomes. In contrast, normal female...
10.0K