Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 15, 2025

A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
Published on: July 31, 2017
Sexuality Among Adolescents With Intellectual Disability: Balancing Autonomy and Protection
Sharon C Enujioke1, Brian Leland2,3, Emily Munson4
1Divisions of Adolescent Medicine sharon.c.enujioke.mil@mail.mil.
Abstract:
Adolescents and young adults living with intellectual disability (ID) have made significant advancements integrating into multiple aspects of western society, but there has been less progress with regards to sexual health. While advocating for individuals with ID to live life to the fullest, pediatricians have practical concerns regarding the ability to consent to sex as well as avoid coercion and manipulation in sexual encounters. This has led to tension between supporting the autonomy of a patient with ID while protecting them from harm. We present a case of a young adult with moderate ID who is engaging in a sexual relationship with her boyfriend without parental knowledge. The pediatrician must decide the most appropriate course of action to support the patient's autonomy but also ensure that the patient is a willing participant and understands the risks of engaging in sexual activity. This case highlights 4 main themes: (1) practical concerns when approaching sexual health in the adolescent with ID, (2) advocating for the rights of those with ID to live life to the fullest, (3) the critical inclusion of individuals with ID in decisions directly affecting them and their peer group, and (4) decision-making capacity and respect for autonomy in individuals with ID. This case highlights the delicate balance providers face when providing care to adolescents and young adults with ID: supporting autonomy to make decisions while reducing harm to a vulnerable population.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Psychosexual Theory of Development
The Five Stages of Psychosexual Development
Freud's psychosexual...
Intellectual Disability
Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adolescence
Psychosexual Stages of Personality: Genital
Psychosexual Stages of Personality: Latency
The latency period is not...

