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Sexuality of people with intellectual disabilities – a systematic review

Kamil Nikel1, Patrycja Piłat1, Joanna Smolarczyk2, Magdalena Piegza3

Affiliacja i adres do korespondencji
Psychiatr Psychol Klin 2025; 25 (2)
10.15557/PiPK.2025.0019
Streszczenie

The sexuality of individuals with intellectual disabilities is a frequently overlooked topic, despite its significant impact on their lives and well-being. This paper presents a systematic review of existing research on this subject, using databases such as PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL. A literature search was conducted, identifying 10,037 studies, ultimately including 24 significant research papers that met the selection criteria, along with 14 supplementary articles. The aim of the review was to explore the issues related to the sexual functioning of individuals with intellectual disabilities, identify the most common barriers and limitations to healthy sexual fulfilment, and highlight the associated risks. The results of the review underscore the need for further research in the area of sexuality of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The analysed articles addressed various issues, such as inadequate sexual education, social and institutional barriers, diversity of needs and experiences, and social stigmatisation. The conclusions point to the necessity for a change in the approach to sexual education, increased social awareness, and the adaptation of support services to the individual needs of people with intellectual disabilities, which can contribute to improving their autonomy, safety, and quality of life. Ongoing research in this field and the implementation of practical actions are essential for the development of a more inclusive and understanding societal approach to the sexuality of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Only through such efforts can full participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in society be ensured, along with respect for their rights to sexuality and intimacy.

Słowa kluczowe
stigmatisation, sexuality, intellectual disability, sexual education, exclusion