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Sexuality Research and Social Policy
Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy 1/2024

16-06-2023

The Dynamics of Intimate Relations in Residential Settings for People with Intellectual Disabilities: Social Workers’ Perspective

Authors: Roni Holler, Chen Bondorevsky-Heyman

Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy | Issue 1/2024

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Abstract

Introduction

Despite recent progressive changes in policy, practices, and discourse, when it comes to intimacy and sexuality, the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities remain unrealized. Drawing on interviews with Israeli social workers employed in residential settings, the study seeks to better understand mechanisms and factors behind this reality.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen Israeli licensed social workers employed in small and large group homes. All interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically.

Results

Using a temporal perspective, the identified themes are organized according to common, potential relationship stages: (a) forming a relationship; (b) practicalities of relationships: private and shared time; (c) dealing with relationship conflicts; (d) cohabitation; and (e) breakup. We trace the barriers experienced in each stage as well as the way social workers perceive both these barriers and their own role in overcoming them.

Conclusions

We suggest four root causes that underlie the intimacy-challenged life of people with intellectual disabilities in residential settings: (a) the institutional nature of residential services; (b) organizational culture and practices; (c) limited resources; and (d) the human factor.

Policy Implications

The current study suggests that to support individuals with intellectual disabilities in realizing their intimate citizenship, multilayered policy efforts are needed, requiring changes in the four root causes.
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Metadata
Title
The Dynamics of Intimate Relations in Residential Settings for People with Intellectual Disabilities: Social Workers’ Perspective
Authors
Roni Holler
Chen Bondorevsky-Heyman
Publication date
16-06-2023
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Sexuality Research and Social Policy / Issue 1/2024
Print ISSN: 1868-9884
Electronic ISSN: 1553-6610
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-023-00833-z

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