Incidence of sexual crime committed against learning disabled adults: a review of two key studies and discussion of implications for practitioners and managers of services

Abstract

In this paper two key British incidence studies of sexual abuse committed against adults with learning disabilities by Turk & Brown (1993) and Brown et al (1995) are outlined. This is followed by a wider discussion of research into the incidence of sexual abuse along with an exploration of definitional issues. The limitations of official crime surveys in relation to the victimization of adults with learning disabilities are explored. The paper concludes that, despite methodological and definitional difficulties associated with incidence studies, there can be little doubt that people with learning disabilities are more vulnerable to sexual abuse than the general population. The implications for staff training on issues of sexuality in the field of learning disabilities and the effective implementation of policies and procedures for the reporting and investigation of these offences, are identified as important areas for practitioners and managers of services.