Factors that hinder and help the sexual lives and sexual wellness of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

This major paper aims to critically analyze current research regarding the sexual lives and sexual wellness of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), with a particular focus on the factors that hinder and help the sexual lives and wellness of individuals with IDD. While many themes arose regarding factors that hinder the sexual lives of those with IDD, the scope of this paper is limited and, therefore, the following four themes are the focus: myths of asexuality and/or hypersexuality; controlled and restricted sexual lives; lack of accessible sex education, knowledge, and resources; and an absence of policies that acknowledge and protect the sexual lives of individuals with IDD. Conversely, recommendations for fostering and helping the sexual lives and sexual wellness for IDD include: acknowledgement and empowerment of sexual lives; sexual voice: autonomy and self-determination; knowledge and sex education; and supportive policies. These findings are important to the social work profession, as being equipped with increased knowledge and subsequent training within this area of practice will benefit the sexual lives and wellness of individuals with IDD. Finally, this literature review highlights the dearth of literature regarding the sexual lives of individuals with IDD, particularly a lack of research with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) people with IDD, socioeconomic factors, and a lack of studies that evaluate policy, education, and quality of life.