Staff Values Regarding the Sexual Expression of Women with Developmental Disabilities

摘要

Women with developmental disabilities face a myriad of barriers that prevent sexual expression. These include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to health care, limited choices regarding reproductive issues, and lack of sex education. The values and beliefs of support staff also represent potential barriers. A survey was conducted to determine the attitudes and knowledge of support staff at an agency serving individuals with developmental disabilities. Findings indicated that a majority of staff felt comfortable supporting women in expressing their sexuality, but few were trained to do so. Results also suggested that staff were guided more by their personal views than by agency policy.