Understanding Men with Low Intellectual Ability and a History of Sexual Offending – May 2026

Persons with special needs profiles (e.g., IDD, ASD, FASD, etc.) and problematic sexual behaviours require accommodation to ensure appropriate interventions. Addressing public safety concerns and advancing client opportunities for meaningful lives requires a nuanced approach because interventions developed for neurotypical individuals may not address the complexity of individuals with special needs. This presentation outlines the unique challenges presented by individuals with special needs and provides a framework for intervention based on the principles of applied behavioural analysis and clinical creativity. Applicability of currently popular methods of assessment, including actuarial and other standardized approaches, will be discussed, finishing with a short discussion of how to replace problematic sexual behaviours with healthy alternatives. 

Robin J. Wilson, Ph.D., ABPP, C.Psych., is a clinical and forensic psychologist with over 40 years experience in sexual violence prevention. He has worked in hospital, correctional, academic, and community-based settings and has published and presented widely on topics related to the assessment, treatment, and risk management of persons who have sexually offended, with particular focus on the safe reintegration of individuals with high-risk/need profiles and ensuring responsive options for persons with special needs and problematic sexual behaviours. He is presently based in Ontario, Canada, but provides training and consultation internationally.