Ethics in sexual behavior assessment and support for people with intellectual disability

Abstract

Sexuality is an issue of equality, rights, and ethics, especially when it comes to the sexuality of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This paper offers a discussion of ethics related to the assessment and intervention supports of sexual behavior in people with IDD. A brief history of sexuality and disability is presented. Issues of sexual abuse of people with IDD and the laws related to sterilization, pornography, sexual rights, and consent are explored. Finally, specific ethical concerns related to intervention by behavior analysts in the realm of sexual behavior are examined.