People with Intellectual Disabilities Struggle to have a Sexual Encounter: A Chinese Cultural Context Investigation

This study employed Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to identify the understanding and needs regarding sexuality of people with intellectual disabilities. Five people with mild grade intellectual disabilities participated in face-to-face interviews in which they discussed their struggle to have romantic relationships and sexual encounters. Their “understanding” and “doing” on sex issues were identified. The lack of adequate sex education and Chinese culture potentially impact people with intellectual disabilities’ beliefs and behaviors on sexuality. Various types of intervention were discussed. Further research is necessary to und erstand the cultural context of the challenges and experiences regarding sexuality faced by people with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Source: Sexuality and Disability - Category: Disability Source Type: research