Sexuality and Personal Relationships for People with Learning Disabilities: A Framework for Assessment and Intervention

Abstract

Sexuality and personal relationships still present many challenges to those working to provide valued lifestyles for people with learning disabilities. However, the focus of much recent work has been on a risk management theme rather than promoting sexuality as a positive, valued experience. This paper presents a simple framework for understanding issues about relationships and sexuality and describes the development of an assessment package for identifying key areas in which to promote positive changes. The framework considers issues about relationships in three areas: skills, knowledge and opportunities. Practical examples are used to illustrate its utility.