Sexual experiences and knowledge of people with moderate intellectual disability.
Most adults with moderate ID masturbate yet lack condom facts—test knowledge first, then teach.
01Research in Context
What this study did
Kirby et al. (2024) asked 142 adults with moderate intellectual disability about sex. They used a simple survey. The team wanted to know what these adults do and what they know.
Questions covered masturbation, condom use, and basic facts. Staff helped when needed. Answers stayed private.
What they found
Three out of four adults said they masturbate. Only three out of ten used condoms. Many gave wrong answers about safe sex.
The study shows a clear gap. People are active but not well informed.
How this fits with other research
Gil-Llario et al. (2022) found a similar low condom rate in Spain. Their model says knowledge and self-belief predict use. Kirby et al. (2024) now show the same low rate in the UK.
McMahon et al. (2014) proved a short computer lesson can raise condom skills. V’s survey data say we need lessons like that.
Chou et al. (2007) warned that adults with ID do not grasp consent laws. V’s work widens the lens to basic sex facts and still finds big holes.
Why it matters
You cannot teach safer sex if you do not know what clients already think. Start with a quick quiz on condoms and myths. Use plain pictures. Then run a short BST lesson like Jennifer’s program. Re-test. This simple loop can cut risk and boost dignity.
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02At a glance
03Original abstract
BACKGROUND: This study addresses the sexuality of people with moderate intellectual disabilities (PMID), a topic that has been little studied. Understanding romantic and sexual experiences is highly relevant for reducing stigma and prejudice related to their sexuality. Additionally, comprehending the level of sexual knowledge of PMID contributes to the development of preventive and sexual health education programmes tailored for this group. Our aim is to explore the sexual history (relationships, sexual behaviour, condom use and sexual abuse), sex education received and the level of sexual knowledge of PMID. METHOD: The total of 142 PMID completed questionnaires about sexual knowledge and experiences, and their support staff provided additional information. Data were analysed using chi-square test (χ2) and descriptive statistical analysis. RESULTS: Masturbation was the most common sexual behaviour (75.7%), especially among men (χ2 = 5.81, P < 0.05). Sexual intercourse was rare, and only 30.5% reported using condoms. Women reported a higher prevalence of self-reported sexual abuse (27.3% vs. 6% in men). The study also highlighted misconceptions about sexual intercourse risks and contraceptive methods. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that PMID need sexual education to ensure healthy sexual experiences and prevent risky behaviour.
Journal of intellectual disability research : JIDR, 2024 · doi:10.1111/jir.13125