Voices from parents on the sexuality of their child with intellectual disabilities: A socioemotional perspective in a Chinese context

Abstract

Background: This qualitative study explored the attitudes and experiences of Hong Kong Chinese parents/carers relating to the sexual needs of their child with intellectual disabilities. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in Hong Kong with seven parents/carers applying Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to explore their experiences of and attitudes towards the sexual needs of their adult child with intellectual disabilities. Findings: Data revealed three salient variations in participants' attitudes towards the child's sexual needs: concern, reluctance and prohibition. Participants' anxiety about discussing sexuality was evident. Most participants further displayed a layer of feeling that combined ‘love’ and ‘grief’. Based on Goffman's dramaturgical perspective, participants exhibited front stage and back stage behaviours that are believed to be strongly influenced by stigmatisation and collectivist culture. Conclusion: Various levels of intervention to reduce stigma are identified and discussed. This study also highlighted the role of caring professionals in generating awareness of the cultural impact on the family and the need to carefully address the subtle feelings experienced by family members with intellectual disabilities.