Parenting Among People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in South Africa

Research on intellectual and developmental disabilities is increasing in South Africa. However, sexuality and reproductive health, particularly parenthood for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and supporting policies and health systems, are neglected areas.

This brief report was guided by a desktop search of literature from South Africa on definitions and perspectives on intellectual and developmental disabilities, services and societal attitudes on sexuality and parenthood. The subheadings used in the report were used to do a scoping of evidence on each topic.

Although some research has been conducted on intellectual and developmental disabilities and sexuality, a direct focus on parenting, for example lived experiences of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, services and parenting outcomes is lacking.

Researchers, policy makers and relevant practitioners must recognise parenting as a human right for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and prioritise parenting in research, policy and practice.