Unprepared: An Appeal for Sex Education Training for Support Workers of Adults with Developmental Disabilities

The sexuality of adults with developmental disabilities (DDs) is a topic seldom addressed, even by those who are charged with their care. The importance of acknowledging that these individuals have the right to express sexual desires and be given comprehensive sex education is paramount for both their physical and mental health. This qualitative study involved presenting a series of open-ended questions to individuals currently or previously employed as support workers. These questions concerned the training and knowledge of these support workers regarding the sexuality of adults with DDs, and the policies relating to such issues in the institutions in which they work. Results reflect the lack of experience that support workers have as well as their lack of confidence in dealing with their clients when issues concerning sexuality arise.