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A Psychoeducational Group for Men with Intellectual Disabilities Who Have Sex with Men
Author(s) -
Withers Paul,
Ensum Ian,
Howarth Daniel,
Krall Patrick,
Thomas Damian,
Weekes Donald,
Winter Charles,
Mulholland Andrew,
Dindjer Tim,
Hall John
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.056
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1468-3148
pISSN - 1360-2322
DOI - 10.1046/j.1468-3148.2001.00085.x
Subject(s) - psychology , safer sex , human sexuality , population , clinical psychology , service provider , qualitative research , human immunodeficiency virus (hiv) , service (business) , developmental psychology , medicine , family medicine , gender studies , social science , economy , environmental health , syphilis , sociology , economics , condom
The sexuality and sexual behaviour of people with intellectual disabilities (IDs) is one of the most complex and unresolved issues faced by service providers. Despite much evidence suggesting the disproportionately high risks faced by men with IDs who have sex with men, no epidemiological research has been conducted on the prevalence of HIV within this population. Current thinking suggests that self‐help groups are efficacious in helping participants to develop positive sexual identities and to share information about safer sexual practices. The present study is a qualitative evaluation of a pilot support group for men with IDs who have sex with men. Themes relating to the formation of sexual identity and safety issues were extrapolated using content analysis from a transcript of the final group session. The implications for service delivery are discussed. The evaluation was conducted by a clinical psychologist external to the group and the members of the group.