Perspectives on Sexuality in Offenders with and without Intellectual Disabilities: Insights from Patients and Professionals

This study examined attitudes toward sexuality in offenders with and without intellectual disabilities (ID) in Dutch forensic mental health care using a cross-sectional study with forensic patients (52 with ID and 32 without ID), a survey for professionals (N = 135), and qualitative interviews with both patients (N = 12) and professionals (N = 23). There were no significant differences in sexual attitudes between forensic patients with and without ID. Attitudes in professionals were influenced by the severity of ID and, for general mental health professionals, by training on sexual health. Qualitative findings revealed that a trusting therapeutic relationship, practitioner, and organizational supports are crucial.