Sexuality and Sex Education of Adolescents with Intellectual Disability: Mothers' Attitudes, Experiences, and Support Needs

Abstract

Few studies have considered families' views about adolescents' sexual development. The authors compared attitudes and behaviors of mothers of young people with (n = 30) and without intellectual disability (n = 30). Both groups placed similar importance on dealing with their children's developing sexuality and were similarly confident in doing so. Mothers of young people with intellectual disability held more cautious attitudes about contraception, readiness to learn about sex, and decisions about intimate relationships. Mothers expressed concerns about their children with intellectual disability and sexual vulnerability. They had also spoken about fewer sexual topics with their children and began these discussions when their children were older. The findings can inform more sensitive supports and materials to help families deal with the sexual development of their offspring.

Parents' perceptions regarding couple relationships of their adult children with intellectual disabilities

“…This is in line with other studies showing that parents express fear and doubt about the ability of their adult child with intellectual disabilities to form mature relationships and have a family of their own (Brechin, 1988;Hingsburger, 1991;Pownall et al, 2012).…”

“…Studies show that despite changes in perceptions towards persons with disabilities over the past decade, the public view regarding couple relationships of adults with intellectual disabilities still reflects a conservative and stereotypical perspective (Coles & Scior, 2012;Crawford & Ostrove, 2003;Lumley & Scotti, 2001;May & Simpson, 2003;Reiter & Bryen, 2012;Swango-Wilson, 2008;Young, Gore, & McCarthy, 2012). Negative perceptions imbedded in cultural traditions (Reiter & Bryen, 2012) underlie rejection and fear of their sexuality (Esmail et al, 2010;Pownall, Jahoda, & Hastings, 2012;Schaaf, 2011), as well as the belief that adults with intellectual disabilities have very little to offer in interpersonal relationships (Brechin, 1988;Rogers, 2009). …”

Sexual understanding, sources of information and social networks; the reports of young people with intellectual disabilities and their non‐disabled peers

“…This is consistent with findings from studies investigating mothers' reports of supporting the sexual development of their offspring (Pownall et al . , ). Paradoxically, a lack of knowledge is likely to make women more rather than less vulnerable (O'Callaghan & Murphy ; Valenti‐Hein & Choinski ).…”

Sexual Behaviour, Knowledge and Use of Contraceptives Among Undergraduate Students

“…In sexual relationships, healthy behaviour Sexual Behaviour, Knowledge and Use of Contraceptives........ is devoid of exploitation, but a tool prevents mental stress on either member of the relationship and buildsecurity 18 . For instance, an intellectually handicapped individual is prone to exploitation, yet capable of having a healthy sexual behaviour to build safe, constructive sexual expression and healthy relationships, if appropriately empowered with behavioural knowledge [23][24][25] . A person with healthy sexual behaviour esteems herself/ himself and exhibits self-control, whilst being able to indulge in pleasurable sensual and sexual activities.…”