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Educators' attitudes and beliefs towards the sexuality of individuals with developmental disabilities

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49 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study presents educators' attitudes and beliefs towards the sexuality of adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities. Open-ended, structured interviews were conducted with five Teachers in a School Program and five Instructors in an Adult Day Services Program at an educational facility for individuals with medically complex developmental disabilities. Results indicate that educators hold a positive view towards providing sexuality education and access to sexual expression for persons with developmental disabilities. Educators viewed sexuality as a basic human right, yet expressed concerns regarding capacity to consent to and facilitation of sexual activity. This study is an initial step to understanding barriers preventing the delivery of sexuality education to this underserved population.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)351-361
Number of pages11
JournalSexuality and Disability
Volume29
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2011

Keywords

  • Attitudes
  • Consent
  • Developmental disabilities
  • Sexuality education

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