engleski

Level of Knowledge about Sexuality of People with Mental Disabilities

The paper presents the research which aims to examine the level of knowledge about sexuality of people with mental disabilities. The research also aims to present differences resulting from sex and the level of mental retardation. The sample included 24 persons with mental disabilities, who the author of this paper knew very well due to the time spent with them during a summer camp in a club Vjeverica. Data were collected through direct interviews. Two types of questionnaires on sexuality of people with mental disabilities were used during these interviews. Results indicate that the level of knowledge about sexuality is not sufficient. Specifically low knowledge was shown in the area of the protection of sexual health, or in other words about sexually transmitted diseases and methods of protection. A relatively good level of knowledge was shown by the respondents in distinguishing between appropriate and inappropriate ways of sexual behaviour and social understanding of certain situations. Differences regarding sex and the level of disability were confirmed. Generally, the results indicate the need for additional education on sexuality of both people with mental disabilities and their parents, as well as a need for the support through various supportive methods. In spite of the fact that the research was done on a small occasional sample, it indicates that further research on this subject is needed.

persons with mental disabilities; level of knowledge; attitudes; sexuality

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