Difficult sexual behaviour

This information sheet is designed to help family carers understand and respond to any sexual behaviour which may cause difficulties for their son or others involved. It is important to remember that some of what has been written with regards to men and boys can also apply to women and girls.

Download: Information sheet on difficult sexual behaviour

Masturbation

Almost all men masturbate. Therefore, we should expect this from men with learning disabilities too. However, problems with masturbation can occur. Support can be given to reduce these by:

• Teaching that masturbation is good. This is helped hugely if a man the person respects says they masturbate too.
• Naming private and public spaces.
• Giving private time without restrictive clothing or incontinence pads.
• Being brave about explaining technique.
• Looking for patterns. Often men do it when other activities offer little interest.

Sexual contact with other people

Understandably, many men with learning disabilities want sex and relationships. If a man is involved in any sexual contact with another person, the ability of both to consent should be checked. Think about:

• Who initiates the contact?
• Does the person have the skills and power to say no?
• Do the people involved understand each other’s intentions?

Men exposing themselves or touching other people sexually without consent should be seen as unacceptable. Men should be helped to understand how serious their behaviour is. Clear boundaries may need to be set about what is and isn’t acceptable.

Men with learning disabilities are at an increased risk of being sexually abused. This should always be considered. However, don’t assume that abusive behaviour is the result of being abused.

Sexual suppressant medication should be strongly resisted. There is a lack of evidence that it works with men with learning disabilities and there are serious side effects.

Pornography and other sexual stimuli

Lots of men use pornography. We should not be surprised if men with learning disabilities are interested in it.

It is sometimes assumed that pornography will help individuals relieve their sexual frustration. There is no evidence to support this and therefore men should not be specifically provided with pornography. Although, men should be allowed to use pornography they have looked for or bought themselves.

If men are looking at pictures of children in a sexual way, you should seek specialist support.

Women and girls

Women and girls can also experience some of the same difficulties men and boys do, such as the side effects of medication, physical difficulties and approaching others sexually with unwanted words or actions. Due to the signs usually being less obvious in women, carers can sometimes overlook needs around masturbation and sexual arousal for women and girls with learning disabilities. Double standards and strong social taboo can make it difficult for women to talk about sexual pleasures, so it is important for those supporting women with learning disabilities not to ignore the issue if guidance is needed.

Download: Information sheet on difficult sexual behaviour