Ways Social Workers Address the Sexuality of Mentally Handicapped People

The sexuality of mentally handicapped people doesn't have to be shrouded in ignorance, a sense of panic, or other negative feelings.

Further, by coming to address this sexuality in the same way that social workers do, you can aspire toward this same professional attitude, becoming better equipped to denounce the myths of the mentally handicapped and their sexuality.

Determining Appropriateness

One of the ways social workers address the sexuality of mentally handicapped people is to determine its appropriateness in relation to whatever situation is at hand.

This attitude works to the advantage of mentally handicapped people since social workers aren't assuming this sexuality is an out of control behavior that warrants constant supervision.

On the contrary, determining the appropriateness of sexuality as it's expressed by mentally handicapped people avoids stereotyping because it is this same appropriateness which governs the sexuality of people in general.

Don't all people--whether mentally handicapped or not--have to follow guidelines regarding sexuality?

Encouraging a Controlled Setting

Another way social workers address the sexuality of mentally handicapped people is by encouraging a controlled setting.

This emphasis on controlled settings works in connection with the appropriate expression of sexuality by mentally handicapped people because it highlights this sexuality as something that shouldn't be denied.

As addressed by social workers who work on behalf of two consenting adults, the appropriate expression of human sexuality in a controlled setting (that is, in a room with the door shut) is seen as whole-heartedly positive.

Providing Counseling

Finally, social workers address the sexuality of mentally handicapped people by providing on the spot counseling when the preceding conditions are not being met.

This means that, while the notions of appropriateness and controlled settings are meant to encourage the sexuality of mentally handicapped people, there can still be the need for supervision, the need to redirect human sexuality beyond the impulsive level to a more responsible one.

For example, a social worker might find it necessary to explain why it's not appropriate to touch a staff member.

Additionally, a social worker might have to redirect the sexuality of mentally handicapped people to a more suitable location.

In sum, the sexuality of mentally handicapped people should not be seen as a negative thing.

Social workers, with the best interest of these people at heart, view this sexuality as normal and attempt to address it through the positive strategies of appropriateness, controlled settings, and on the spot counseling.

Source: personal experience