Abstract
A large number of adults who were brought up in the United States have limited sexual health literacy because of incomprehensive sexual education in adolescence. Many adults view sexual activity as an important component that contributes to their quality of life. Occupational Therapists can address sex and intimacy to improve literacy and satisfaction for adults with limited knowledge. The proposed study uses a quasi-experimental design with pre/post surveys to assess the efficacy of educational programming surrounding topics on sexual health literacy and satisfaction. The intended setting and population are adult members who attend programming and events at the Taunton location of the South Coast LGBTQ+ Network. Purpose: Many adults over the age of 18 in the United States have basic or below basic health literacy, impacting sexual health literacy and sexual satisfaction. To promote an increased quality of life, adults need inclusive and comprehensive sex education. The research question “how does inclusive and comprehensive sexual health education impact quality of life for adults?” will be explored through occupation-based, educational programming. Suggested topics include but are not limited to anatomy, consent, positioning, safe sex practices, discussing sexually transmitted conditions with new partners, pronoun use, use of sex toys for pleasure, safe practices for tucking/packing and binding. Design: Quasi-experimental design of adults who attend programming and events at the South Coast LGBTQ+ Network. Methods: Pre/Posttest Microsoft Forms/Excel surveys based on the NSSS and OPISI to measure program efficacy outcomes on sexual health literacy and sexual satisfaction. Potential Limitations: After participating in educational programming, results may demonstrate improved sexual health literacy and sexual satisfaction, highlighting the importance of OT for adults to address topics related to sex and intimacy. It is also important to note disclosure of information may be limited due to sensitivity of topics. Impact Statement: Occupational therapy practitioners are uniquely qualified to address sex as an ADL. More research on addressing inclusive and comprehensive sexual health literacy education is needed and will benefit practitioners' ability to address all valued occupations for individuals, especially the LGBTQ+ population.
Faculty Mentor
Kathryn Burke, OTD, OTR/L
Graduation Date
2026
Document Type
Poster
Recommended Citation
Burns, Meaghan, "The Impact of Community-based Educational Workshops on the Sexual Health Literacy and Sexual Satisfaction of LGBTQ+ Adults" (2026). Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstones. 63.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/otd_capstone/63
