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Chapter 7: Sexuality and Disability

Additional resources for this chapter

instructor material

DOI:

10.1891/9780826180636.0007

Authors

  • Graf, Noreen M.

Abstract

Sexuality and disability is a topic that has been neglected for a long time by professionals. This chapter focuses on (a) sexuality and related components; (b) disability and intimate relationships; (c) disability type and related sexual issues; (d) sexual orientation, sexual functioning, procreation, and parenting; (e) sex education, sex therapy, and sexual surrogates; and (f) sexual abuse. Issues related to sex and sexuality for people with disabilities (PWDs) incorporate some important topics that can affect how PWDs view themselves and live their lives. This chapter discussed the social construction of gender identity and body image and the role that social construction plays in the sexual stigmatization and abuse of PWDs. Societal attitudes additionally play a role in self-esteem and body image for PWDs and affect their intimate partnering choices.