Sexual Abuse and Violence: Untold Stories of Sexual Abuse and Violence Against People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Project Description:
Sexual violence is an epidemic and a serious public health problem for people with IDD in the United States. In January 2018, National Public Radio (NPR) reported about their year-long investigation titled, The Sexual Assault Epidemic No One Talks About. Using data from the Justice Departments unpublished federal crime statistics, NPR found that people with I/DD are sexually assaulted at a rate seven times higher than those without disabilities. Individuals are more likely to be assaulted by someone they know, and predators often target people with IDD because they are seen as easily manipulated. Incidents of sexual violence and abuse against persons with I/DD are underreported and prosecution has not been a priority. In December 2018, the nation became aware of the Arizona case where a Hacienda HealthCare licensed practical nurse was accused and subsequently indicted for raping and impregnating a woman with I/DD.
In response to the AZ Hacienda incident, the Governor's Abuse & Neglect prevention Task Force was established to make recommendations for system improvement. The new Arizona Sexual Violence & I/DD Response Collaborative also included formal work groups to address the crisis. This proposal is conducting research to gain a clearer understanding of the incidence, context, and impact of sexual abuse on the lives of persons with IDD. It focuses on the voices and perspectives of individuals with I/DD, family members, direct support professionals, mental health professionals, service providers, and the DDD network. Due to the complexity of this topic, collaborative partnerships and expertise in abuse and trauma were utilized during all phases of this research project. The project objectives includes: a) engage the community in the continuum of research, b) increase public awareness of the problem of sexual violence, c) collect data about the context of sexual abuse and violence, d) identify collaborative solutions. Interviews, a survey, and public forums will be implemented. The expected benefits include the development of training programs addressing the prevention of sexual abuse and violence, increased system collaboration and transparency, and greater access to trauma informed supports for persons with I/DD.
Keyword(s):
sexual abuse, trauma informed care
Core Function(s):
Performing Research or Evaluation
Target Audience:
Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, Legislators/Policy Makers, General Public
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Specific Groups
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State, National
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
