Gränslandet mellan sex, relationer och samtycke För personer med intellektuella funktionsnedsättningar

Abstract

This study aims to provide an examination of the material available to and produced for people with intellectual disabilities, within the context of how they inform upon and describe sexuality. To achieve this aim, three questions were used to examine the material: In which ways do the materials gathered describe relationships to those with intellectual disabilities? How is sex described within said material? How is information about consent gained from the material? A qualitative content analysis method was used to answer the questions and to analyse the material. Empirical material was gathered from different advocacy organisations, teaching material from schools, and local government guidance documents from the relative authorities. Over the course of the investigation, different codes and categories were identified and divided into three distinct themes: sexual script, citizen rights discourse and strength perspective, and the feeling of shame and pastoral power. These categories composed the theoretical framework of the analysis. To summarise the study, it was found that there are no specific limits that seek to define what sex and relationships are and that the examined materials underline that all kind of sex and relationships are based upon the individual's free will. This focus presents sex, relationships, and consent in a positive perspective; trusting that the person can take adequate decisions regarding their own sexuality, but also with the reservation to be careful with some situations. The final debate discusses the balance between providing a sex-positive viewpoint, whilst also maintaining a protective perspective with the intentions of good will.