Project 459438

This exploratory research project seeks to understand the sexual health knowledge and needs of LGBT+ adults labeled/with developmental and intellectual disabilities in Alberta, Canada. There is a growing body of literature addressing the sexual and romantic experiences of (heterosexual and cisgender) people with disabilities. However, this literature has not paid equal attention to the experiences of disabled people who identify as LGBT+. In addition, the community partner for this project (Inclusion Lethbridge) has raised the concern that LGBT+ disabled people, who are now more likely to be living in the community rather than in segregated care, might lack the tools necessary to grasp their gender and sexual identities and develop and maintain intimate relationships. To address this gap, this study will conduct semi-structured, in-depth qualitative interviews with 15-30 adults labeled/with developmental and intellectual disabilities about 1) their experiences in constructing their sexual and gender identities, 2) their knowledge and needs related to sexual health, and 3) their experiences navigating LGBT+ spaces. The interviews will be done in person, via Zoom or telephone, depending on the participant's preference, transcribed, and thematically analyzed. The disability rights movement has long fought for "nothing about us, without us" (Charlton, 1998) - this includes active and meaningful participation in disability research. There is a need for health and community professionals to learn from LGBT+ disabled people themselves, and thus, this project includes community members with disabilities as co-researchers. With momentum growing in support of disability rights and sexual autonomy, it is extremely important to make sure that the needs of those who are most marginalized (i.e., LGBT+ disabled people) are considered so that the health and wellbeing of everyone might benefit.