Child sexual, physical and emotional abuse and intellectual disability

ABSTRACT

It is well acknowledged and understood that children who have been sexually, physically or emotionally abused are likely to experience psychiatric disorders in adulthood. Persons with intellectual disability who have been through abuse face a more complex double or even triple jeopardy because of mental illness, intellectual disability and abuse. They are more likely to be vulnerable to further exploitation and manipulation. Prevalence of disability is linked with development of mental ill-health and distress compounded by experiences of sexual, physical or emotional abuse. Clinicians need to be aware of the role abuse may play and must be sensitive in exploring history of abuse as well as any ongoing difficulties. Legal frameworks wherever available should be used to protect vulnerable individuals. If such protection is not available it is imperative that clinicians and policymakers work together to set up these frameworks.