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Abstract

This study investigated the association between the severity and duration of physical disability and sexual esteem, sexual depression, sexual satisfaction, and the frequency of sexual behavior. A total of 1,196 participants completed the study. There were 748 participants (367 males, 381 females) who had a physical disability and 448 participants (171 males, 277 females) who were able-bodied. The age range of participants was 18-69 years, with a mean age of 36.39 years (SD = 10.41). The results demonstrated that people with more severe physical impairments experienced significantly lower levels of sexual esteem and sexual satisfaction and significantly higher levels of sexual depression than people who had mild impairments or who did not report having a physical impairment. The study also found that people with more severe physical disabilities engaged in mutual sexual activity significantly less frequently. Women with physical disabilities had significantly more positive feelings about their sexuality and significantly more frequent mutual sexual experiences than their male counterparts. For people with physical disabilities, the frequency of oral sex and nude cuddling were significant predictors of sexual satisfaction in men, while the frequency of deep kissing predicted sexual satisfaction in women. Furthermore, the viewing of erotica was significantly related to sexual dissatisfaction in men. Finally, it was found that people who had experienced their physical impairment for a longer period of time reported significantly more positive feelings about their sexuality. Implications of these findings are discussed and suggestions are made for future research.

The First Sexual Experience Among Adolescent Girls With and Without Disabilities

“…Existing literature suggests that women with disabilities often experience additional challenges to developing sexual and romantic relationships (McCabe and Taleporos 2003; Skar 2003), greater barriers to communicating about sexuality (Berman et al 1999; Howland and Rintala 2001; Valencia and Cromer 2000), and additional constraints to accessing family planning (Becker et al 1997; Waxman 1994) than women without disabilities. Despite the evidence that women with and without disabilities experience aspects of sexuality differently, the relationship between disability and the characteristics of first sexual intercourse among adolescent girls remains under-researched.…”

“…Previous research on the stereotypes associated with disability, sexuality, and positive sexual expression can help inform these findings. A woman who feels sexually disenfranchised or who has lower sexual esteem as a result of her disability (McCabe and Taleporos 2003; Milligan and Neufeldt 2001; Taleporos and McCabe 2003) may be more likely to engage in sexual intercourse with a partner with whom she is less emotionally invested. Having sex with a recently met partner may allow girls with non-apparent disabilities to engage in sexual intercourse without disclosing the presence of a limitation.…”

“…Furthermore, Deloach (1994) and Phillips (1990) suggest that women with disabilities may internalize these stereotypes. Individuals with physical disabilities have been found to have lower levels of sexual esteem than individuals without disabilities (McCabe and Taleporos 2003)— and many consider their disability an obstacle to sexual expression (Taleporos and McCabe 2003) and romantic relationships (Skar 2003)—which may leave them less confident to pursue a more committed partnership than people without disabilities. Thus, emotional and attitudinal barriers may complicate the development of romantic types of relationships for girls with disabilities.…”

Sexual behaviours and sexual health outcomes among young adults with limiting disabilities: findings from third British National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal-3)

“…Previous research on stereotypes associated with disability and sexuality suggests that a woman who feels sexually disenfranchised or who has lower sexual esteem as a result of her disability may be more likely to have sex with a partner with whom she is less emotionally invested 34–36. However, having sex with someone soon after meeting may not, in itself, be a negative outcome if the experience is mutually desired, safe, pleasurable, free of coercion, discrimination and violence 4.…”

Association of Physical Activity to the Risk of Obesity in Adults with Physical Disabilities

“…Physical disability is defined as a significant deviation or loss of body functions and structures, limiting physical activity and participation. 5,6 According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 7 approximately 41.5 million adults had some types of physical disabilities in 2010. It was reported that those with physical disabilities used a wheelchair, cane, crutches, or walker; had difficulty in walking, climbing stairs, lifting; and had conditions contributing to an activity limitation, including arthritis or rheumatism, back or spine problem and broken bone or fracture.…”