Zihinsel Engelli Bireylerin Cinselliği: Aile Üyelerinin ve Profesyonellerin Görüşleri Ve Deneyimleri

Abstract

This study was conducted to understand the perspectives and experiences of family members of individuals with intellectual disabilities and professionals providing services to these individuals, with a foundation in anti-discriminatory social work practice regarding the sexuality of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The research utilized a qualitative design based on a phenomenological approach. Purposeful sampling was employed in the study. In-depth, semi-structured individual interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with family members of individuals diagnosed with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities residing in Mersin and professionals providing services to individuals with intellectual disabilities. A total of 8 family members and 13 professionals participated in the individual interviews, while 8 family members and 8 professionals participated in the focus group discussions. In total, 37 individuals were included in the individual and focus group interviews. The data collected during the interviews were thematically analyzed using the Atlas.ti 8 analysis software. The study revealed that family members and professionals are key decision-makers in the sexual lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities, often making decisions about their sexuality without involving the individuals themselves. It was found that family members and professionals make decisions not based on sexual rights but rather on societal norms. They believe that the well-being of individuals with intellectual disabilities in their sexual lives can be achieved through societal conformity, which involves adhering to the sexual norms deemed appropriate by mainstream society. For individuals with intellectual disabilities, the sexuality considered appropriate is asexuality or a sexual life without reproduction. For family members and professionals, the sexuality of individuals with intellectual disabilities is perceived as a problem that should be resolved through societal change. The findings indicate that a lack of knowledge about the sexuality of individuals with intellectual disabilities significantly affects the perspectives of family members and professionals. It is necessary to provide education to individuals with intellectual disabilities, their families, professionals, and society through a sexuality education curriculum based on sexual rights. Raising awareness among all members of society through sexuality education is crucial. Recommendations have been made for social work interventions at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels to advance sexual rights.