SEXUALIDADE E DEFICIÊNCIA INTELECTUAL ESTIGMAS E PRECONCEITOS

Abstract

Sexuality is a human attribute inherent in any person, regardless of biological, psychological or social limitations. Thus, the sexuality of people with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) is undeniable, even though the degree of intellectual commitment can influence the ability to manifest and experience affective-sexual bonds. Stigma is a physical, mental or social mark that can be innate, acquired or attributed, and that puts the person who bears it in social disrepute. However, there is the stigma which is attributed to her from the moment that something different is perceived in her and society has attributed a negative mark to this difference. Imbued with this understanding, this study aimed to discuss the stigmas and prejudices that permeate the sexuality of people with intellectual disabilities, understanding it as an important attribute for social inclusion. We used as methodology the review of literature and documents on this subject, seeking re-reading, analysis and systematization in order to produce other possible contributions to debate. The results showed that: a) the belief that people with ID are asexual when they are not seen as infantile is still common, and b) the sexual behaviors of people with ID are considered inappropriate and/or problematic. We conclude that most reinforcement of prejudice about the sexuality of people with disabilities is directly related to the way society understands and recognizes differences and to the standards that define and establish normality.