A SMALL-GROUP SEX EDUCATION/INTERVENTION MODEL FOR THE WELL ELDERLY: A CHALLENGE FOR EDUCATORS

The current study investigated changes that occurred in older adults' knowledge and attitudes about sexual health in the elderly after a two-session education/ intervention workshop. The subjects were ten well elderly people, ages 61-91, who attended a senior services day care center. Data were collected via individual interviews using the Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale. Results indicated that although modeled judgments may be learned, they may not be expressed because they are socially or personally disfavored. The presumption is that modeling rewarded standards that are too discrepant with one's own moral judgment cannot be assimilated because of cognitive dissonance. Suggestions are given for those who may desire to give similar workshops.