Learning Difficulties and Sexual Vulnerability: A Social Approach

People with learning difficulties are considerably more likely to experience sexual violence than non-disabled people, and for this reason they are often described as 'vulnerable'. However, the use of this label can in fact increase risk. This book argues that by seeing adults with learning difficulties as vulnerable and in need of protection, they are stripped of their autonomy and left with fewer skills that are needed to protect themselves from harm. Their different treatment, such as segregation and over-protection, can in fact increase their 'vulnerability'. The author discusses a range of social processes, such as sex education, self-determination, friendships, sexual relationships and social inclusion, and examines the risk and benefits associated with each. Drawing on the everyday experiences of 29 adults with learning difficulties, the author illustrates how people with learning difficulties can be capable of safeguarding themselves from harm, and makes a range of suggestions for enabling them to become better equipped at managing risk themselves. This book will be essential reading for practitioners working with people with learning difficulties, as well as students and academics in the fields of disability and social work.

Table of Contents:
Acknowledgements. 1. Introduction. 2. Developing an Alternative Approach to Risk. 3. Sexuality. 4. Risk Creation in Everyday Life. 5. Resistance and Self-Determination. 6. Conclusion. References. Index.

About the Author :
Andrea Hollomotz is Lecturer in Social Policy at Manchester Metropolitan University. Her particular interest lies in learning difficulties and sexual vulnerability, on which she has recently completed her PhD.

Review :
This book deals with a rarely debated subject with which social workers and the courts are too often confronted. The author addresses a topic which could at first glance appear pretty grim but her approach is inclusive and refreshingly right-based, offering a constructive and empowering discussion. I found this book thought-provoking and a welcome challenge to established ideas about vulnerability... The book is rich with excerpts from interviews and examples from Hollomotz's research, adding depth to the narrative and theory. It is a useful resource for anyone working in safeguarding adults, who wants to empower, just protect the service user.