[From taboo to self-actualization--acceptance problems and learning processes in working with mentally handicapped...

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Disability Studies
• Human Rights

Context:

• Historical development of services for people with developmental disabilities in Germany.
• Analysis of the institutional framework impacting individuals with disabilities.
• Focus on the intersection of sexuality and developmental disabilities within societal structures.

Purpose:

• To introduce the complex topic of sexuality and developmental disabilities.
• To present historical and institutional contexts relevant to disability services in Germany.
• To establish criteria for assessing institutional support of sexual self-determination.

Summary:

• The article examines the historical evolution and current institutional landscape concerning developmental disabilities in Germany.
• It introduces six key standards, framed as human rights, to evaluate how institutions affect the sexual self-determination of individuals with developmental disabilities.
• These standards serve as a benchmark for assessing supportive or hindering practices within care settings.

Impact:

• Provides a framework for evaluating institutional practices related to sexual rights for people with developmental disabilities.
• Contributes to a better understanding of the historical and societal factors influencing sexuality in this population.
• Promotes the alignment of institutional support with human rights principles for sexual self-determination.