School-Based Sexual Violence Among Female Learners With Mild Intellectual Disability in South Africa

• NCJ Number: 239737
• Journal: Violence Against Women Volume: 18 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2012 Pages: 309-321
• Author(s): Tlakale Nareadi Phasha; Doris Nyokangi
• Date Published: March 2012
• Length: 13 pages
• Grant Number(s): TTK200705070000708
• Sponsoring Agency: National Research Foundation
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article presents school-based sexual violence experiences of female learners with mild intellectual disability.

Abstract

Following qualitative research methodology, this article presents school-based sexual violence experiences of female learners with mild intellectual disability. A total of 16 learners aged 16 to 24 years participated in the study. The findings revealed that learners with intellectual disability are not immune to school-based sexual violence. Modes of behavior that occurred frequently included touching, threats, and intimidation. School practices that reinforced school-based sexual violence are identified. The findings contradict common misconceptions that people with intellectual disability do not understand what is happening to them. The study recommends that school policies for sexual violence be intensified and learners receive developmentally appropriate sex education. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.