Search

Despite patient demand for sexual health discussions with their physicians, sexuality instruction in residency is often lacking. This exploratory quantitative study assessed the amount and usefulness of sexuality instruction received by a sample of medical residents, as well as the residents' self-perceived readiness regarding addressing sexuality issues. Data were obtained through a self-administered survey with 130 resident respondents. The majority reported receiving little/no formal sexuality instruction. Many indicated that additional sexuality instruction would be useful in their practice. Although the majority reported comfort discussing sexuality, they reported rarely/never initiating these discussions. Recommendations for changes in graduate medical education programming are provided.

This qualitative study provides insight into the personal experiences and perceptions of adults with learning difficulties regarding their social-sexual lives. Case studies of five adults with learning difficulties based on two in-depth interviews and a home observation revealed five key elements needed to have a sexual voice: sexual self-advocacy, sexuality education, sexual script, sexual vocabulary and sexual-relational support. Social workers are encouraged to see sexual voice for adults with intellectual disabilities as a social justice issue. Challenging structural systems that contribute to marginalisation is fundamental to the efforts of social workers to advance human rights and social justice. Social work educators can increase student competency around advocacy related to disability and sexuality as well as assisting clinicians to improve their practice skills in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]