Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2025

Whole Body Vibration Methods with Survivors of Polio
Published on: October 17, 2018
The pursuit of intimacy: intimate relationship development for women with physical disabilities
Derek Ruiz1, Alexandra Kriofske Mainella2, David A Rosenthal3
1Department of Rehabilitation, Disability Counseling, Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA, United States.
Background And Purpose:
Understanding the barriers and facilitators to intimate relationship development among women with physical disabilities is crucial for promoting positive rehabilitation outcomes. This study investigates these factors using a Consensual Qualitative Research approach.
Methods:
The research team utilized Consensual Qualitative Research. Consensual Qualitative Research is widely used in various social services to address limitations inherent limitations of other qualitative methods. Women with various physical disabilities (n=6) were identified and interviewed using a utilized a semi-structured interview. Their attitudes towards intimacy, outcome expectancy, and self-concept of women with physical disabilities were examined. The impact of physical disabilities, including disability stigma, on these factors was also assessed. Data was coded utilizing multiple researcher consensus as well as an auditor to consensually agree upon domains and core ideas while taking into account validity and trustworthiness, as per the methodology chosen.
Results:
The study discovered general themes (100% representation) concerning core values and barriers to intimacy, societal barriers to intimate relationships, and hope for future relationships. Typical themes (50-83% representation) included non-romantic intimacy, physical barriers to intimacy, perceived limitations, and negative outcome expectancies. Across the board, the influence of disability limitations, identity, and societal attitudes became evident. The role of rehabilitation professionals in advocating for social skills development and self-confidence enhancement emerged as crucial.
Conclusions:
The study illuminated barriers to intimacy among women with physical disabilities, such as societal stigma and self-concept associated with disability. The critical role of rehabilitation professionals in normalizing intimacy discussions and equipping individuals with necessary social skills and self-confidence was underscored. This focus could yield enhanced intimate relationship outcomes and improve the quality of life for women with physical disabilities.
Related Concept Videos
Techniques of therapeutic communication I: Active Listening, Sharing Observations, Validation, and Using Touch
Therapeutic communication is not the same as social interaction. Social interaction has no goal or purpose and consists of casual information sharing, whereas therapeutic communication has a plan or purpose for the conversation. Therapeutic...
Intellectual Disability
Relationship Formation
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Peripheral Artery Disease IV: Nursing Management

