How to Support Youth Who Are Blind
Through Each Stage of Their Sexual
Development
Adama Dyoniziak, MPH, CPH
Director of Strategic Programs
Braille Institute
ADyoniziak@brailleinstitute.org
Myth: sexuality starts at puberty. Fact: sexu-
ality is a lifespan process starting in the womb.
Myth: sexual development is about sex. Fact:
every person goes through sexual development
which includes sexual and gender identity forma-
tion, physical changes at puberty accompanied
by sexual feelings and emotions, decision making
and social skills, and relationship building. This
article will explore the stages of sexual develop-
ment, how visual impairment can affect each
stage, and how professionals can guide parents
in supporting youth who are blind with adapta-
tions.
Some parents fear telling children who are
blind too much too soon and wait for their children
to ask questions. A child who is blind cannot visu-
ally observe activities that would prompt ques-
tions. Youth are not harmed by information; they
disregard what they are not developmentally
ready for and retain the rest. When information is
delayed until a later age, misconceptions become
difficult to address, facts add confusion, and the
risk of sexual abuse and exploitation increases.
Children who are blind also may have fear or guilt
about sexual feelings they do not understand.
Birth to age 2
Infants learn about themselves by exploring
their bodies. Parents should allow blind babies to
touch their own genitals and instill a healthy body
image by sharing positive "body" talk. Infants re-
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