Understanding sexuality of persons with disability in residential facilities in Gauteng, South Africa : perceptions of service providers and people with disabilities.
Date
2017
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Abstract
This study explored the realities of people with disabilities living in institutions in Gauteng,
South Africa. The study focused on perspectives of service providers and people with
disabilities. There is limited research on sexuality and disability from a South African
perspective, which this study aimed to redress.
The goal of the study was to explore sexuality as a form of pleasure and expression of love, for
people with disabilities via qualitative research. Anti-Oppressive theory was the framework
used to provide a broader understanding of sexuality and disability. The target sample was from
residential facilities in Gauteng. In-depth interviews were used for people with disabilities and
focus groups with service providers.
This study found that the sexuality of people with disabilities was not prioritised with results
uncovering: lack of privacy, lack of training and provision of sexual health education programs,
denial of intimate relationships, negative self-esteem, unpleasant sexual experiences (abuse).
Other concerns were, the nonexistence of sexuality policies, infantilisation of adults with
disabilities, and negative attitudes towards the sexuality of people with disabilities. The
recommendations were mainly: disability sensitisation and awareness campaigns at structural
and residential care level.
Description
Master of Social Science in Social Work. University of KwaZulu-Natal. Durban, 2017.