Sexuality among Chinese mental health consumers in halfway houses of Hong Kong

Abstract

Objective: This study examined the sexuality of Chinese mental health consumers in halfway houses by incorporating the perspectives of consumers and staff. Methods: A total of 193 consumers and 88 staff from 11 halfway houses in Hong Kong completed surveys about sexual needs, attitudes, and expression. Chi square analyses and t tests examined group differences. Needs related to nine sex-related activities were examined: finding a partner, dating, marriage, procreation, use of sex workers (persons who exchange sex for money), viewing pornography, masturbation, intimate physical contacts, and sexual intercourse. Results: From 14% to 49% of consumers reported needs related to the nine activities. Acceptance of activities was higher among staff, and consumers were more conservative in sexual attitudes. Staffs members' reported level of sexual knowledge and level of comfort in addressing sexual issues were higher than consumers' reports of their own knowledge and comfort. Conclusions: The findings can inform the development of sexuality training programs for staff and consumers in halfway houses.