Type:	Journal Article
Title:	Women with intellectual disabilities A study of sexuality, sexual abuse and protection skills
Other Titles:	Australian Family Physician
Authors:	Lennox, N Scheermeyer, E Eastgate, G Van Driel, M. L
Year:	2011
Citation:	No 4 Vol.: 40
Notes:	Background Sexual abuse and abusive relationships are known to be especially common in people with intellectual disability. This study explored how women with intellectual disability understand sex, relationships and sexual abuse, the effects of sexual abuse on their lives, and how successfully they protect themselves from abuse. Method Semistructured narrative interviews with nine women with mild intellectual disability in Queensland, Australia. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, coded and analysed qualitatively. Results Major themes that emerged were: sexual knowledge and sources of knowledge; negotiating sexual relationships; declining unwanted sexual contact; self protection strategies; sexual abuse experiences; and sequelae of sexual abuse. Discussion Most participants reported unwanted or abusive sexual experiences. They described sequelae such as difficulties with sex and relationships, and anxiety and depression. They described themselves as having inadequate self protection skills and difficulty reporting abuse and obtaining appropriate support. Their understanding of sex was limited and they lacked the literacy and other skills to seek information independently. It is important for general practitioners to be aware of the possibility of sexual abuse against women with intellectual disability, and to offer appropriate interventions. Times Cited: 0Cited Reference Count: 28Eastgate, Gillian Van Driel, Mieke L. Lennox, Nicholas Scheermeyer, Elly
URI:	https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/12265
ISSN:	0300-8495
Physical description:	Pages 226-230
Appears in Collections:	Journal Articles

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