Challenges of having a loving partner: the views of adults with intellectual disabilities

Abstract

Background Making decisions about feelings and relationships is a challenge for many people with intellectual disabilities (ID). The aim of this article is to explore their opinions regarding the difficulties they experience in relation to having a partner and living together. Method Nine advisers with ID with experience in inclusive research discussed issues about having a loving partner during 8 meetings. Discussions were recorded, and a thematic content analysis was conducted. Results The results show that the network of social relationships, control over one’s own intimate relationships, obtaining the right support and having training in couple relationships are key elements in people with ID having a satisfying couple relationship. Conclusions The research gives visibility to the difficulties that people with ID encounter in having intimate couple relationships and sheds light on the need to undertake actions that contribute to their right to intimate citizenship.