S.T.A.R.S.: Skills Training for Assertiveness, Relationship-Building, and Sexual Awareness

Specially designed for teaching adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities, the STARS model focuses on four areas: Understanding Relationships, Social Interaction, Sexual Awareness, and Assertiveness -- with the goals of promoting positive sexuality and preventing sexual abuse. Assessment tools help identify the strengths and needs of each individual, and then the activities can be catered to address specific needs.

Goals and activities cover a variety of important skills:

Building a Positive Self-Image

Making Choices

Learning Relationship-Appropriate Behaviors

Engaging in Mature Relationships

Identifying Body Parts and Understanding Their Functions

Understanding Public and Private Behavior

Understanding Sexual Feelings and Behaviors

Understanding Reproduction

Health Issues Related to Sexual Awareness

Recognizing a Situation as Unsafe

Learning to Say "No"