Sexuality and occupational therapy in Ireland - a case of ambivalence?

Purpose: To examine occupational therapists' attitudes and beliefs towards addressing clients' sexuality and sexual needs during everyday practice. Method: A cross-sectional internet based survey was conducted among a convenience sample (n = 120) of occupational therapists working in Ireland. Respondents' perceived knowledge, awareness and confidence to address sexuality were examined. Respondents also reported current practice relating to addressing sexuality. Results: Sexuality although considered a legitimate area of practice was rarely addressed by occupational therapists. Participants reported low levels of awareness, knowledge and confidence relating to addressing client sexuality. Specific barriers identified by participants to addressing sexuality include lack of training, perceived lack of readiness of the client, client's age and marital status, perceived appropriateness of sexuality for the client. Conclusion: Occupational therapists in Ireland appear to be ambivalent towards the inclusion of sexuality as part of practice. Current practice rarely includes clients' sexual needs and appears to be influenced by a hetro-normative conservative discourse of sexuality. Additional training and education, which challenges current assumptions relating to sexuality, is required to ensure that the needs of people with illness and disability are met.