Performance and attitudes of occupational therapists regarding sexual habilitation of pediatric patients.

A survey of 70 registered occupational therapists was conducted to determine the therapists' performance of tasks related to the sexual development of disabled children and the therapists' attitudes toward sexual habilitation issues. The questionnaire used in the survey was developed after a review of the literature on sexuality and disability. Respondents indicated which of the nine tasks listed they performed, which they considered important, and for the performance of which they felt adequately prepared. They also designated individuals who, in their opinion, were best suited for the performance of each task. Results showed a discrepancy between respondents' positive attitudes toward tasks of sexual habilitation and the low frequency of reported task performances. No single health professional was clearly identified as appropriate for performing any of the tasks, nor were parents so identified. Therapists who had received information on sexual habilitation and rehabilitation performed significantly more of the tasks than did therapists without this educational experience.