We are all sexual beings. But we’re not all treated the same.
One in four adults in the U.S. lives with a disability, yet for many their sexual education needs have been overlooked, leaving them vulnerable to abuse, risky sexual behaviors and loneliness. Whether you are living with a disability or love someone who is, this gap needs to close to promote sexual equality.
As sex education loses funding and becomes more restricted in scope and access, individuals with disabilities are often left out of even the most basic programs. Only five states mandate inclusive sex education for people with disabilities, and two of those are optional, while 36 states don't mention sex education for special needs at all. This lack of inclusion leaves individuals with disabilities to rely on parents and media for information, which is often incomplete, inaccurate or absent altogether.
This lack of education has fostered misconceptions and barriers surrounding sex and disability. Here are the biggest things to understand:
These barriers to sexuality have serious consequences. Children with disabilities are four times more likely to experience sexual assault than their peers, increasing to seven times more likely as adults. Between 40% to 70% of girls with disabilities and up to 30% of boys experience sexual assault before the age of 18. Women with disabilities are more than twice as likely to contract sexually transmitted diseases than their peers. Loneliness and mental distress are much more prevalent among adults with disabilities due to social isolation and stigma around dating and relationships.
Sex and disability are still taboo.What are we so afraid of?
Here are some steps to promote sexual equality:
Promoting sexual equality for people with disabilities is essential for their overall wellbeing and happiness. By breaking down barriers and having open conversations, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone.
Catalina Lawsin, PhD is a licensed psychologist who has been supporting sex and relationships for the past 23 years as a professor, researcher, and clinician amongst individuals affected by cancer and sexless relationships. Catalina offers support in her private practice, group programs, and public talks. You can connect with Catalina @TheIntimacyDoc on TikTok, IG or www.TheIntimacyDoc.com.
Important:For disability community, dating comes with unique challenges
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