The study focused on perspectives of people with intellectual disability (ID) regarding their experience of being involved in an intimate relationship with a steady partner and on the discrepancies between their reported experiences and the prevailing opinions on this issue as expressed in the professional literature. In light of the importance of couple relationships in the general population, the paucity of studies that consider this type of relationship among people with ID is conspicuous. Qualitative analysis was used to understand how people with ID perceive couple relationships. Quantitative analysis was used to compare the quality of life and self-concept of people with ID involved in an intimate relationship with those of people with ID who have a strong relationship with a close friend. The findings indicate that people with ID perceive couple relationships to be multidimensional, with unique characteristics, much like the general population's perception of couple relationships. In addition, it was found that people with ID involved in an intimate couple relationship scored higher on quality of life and self-image measures than did their counterparts who had a close relationship with a (non-partner) friend. Several recommendations are offered on how to help people with ID develop and maintain a long-term intimate relationship with a lifelong partner.

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Couple relationships are central to adult lives in the general population, but less accessible to adults with intellectual disabilities (ID). However, little is known regarding factors that enable couple relationships among this population. In the present study, semistructured interviews were conducted with 20 Israeli couples with ID. The interview protocol addressed conditions that enabled the relationship, challenges encountered in the relationship, and coping strategies employed in accordance. Thematic content analysis was conducted. According to the interviewees, conditions propelling couples with ID to engage and stay in their relationships included: partner's attractiveness, viewing the partner as a source of comfort following a crisis, and the intervention of matchmakers. Stated challenges included: difficulties arising from within the relationship and from other persons in the couples' close milieu. Coping strategies included: mutual assistance, giving space to the partner, aspiring for a lifelong relationship, and turning to support staff for assistance. Recommendations for changing non-ID significant others' attitudes toward couples with ID and providing necessary supports are presented. Implications for policy change are provided.

Background: A particular challenge facing parents of children with intellectual disabilities occurs when their adult children with intellectual disabilities has an interest in pursuing couple relationships. This study explores parents' perceptions regarding the nature of couple relationships, the right of their adult children with intellectual disabilities to pursue such relationships, the difficulties their children encounter and their own role in providing support.Method: Interviews were conducted with 30 parents of adults with intellectual disabilities who had left home for independent and semi-independent living arrangements. A thematic content analysis was conducted.