SEXUAL ABUSE OF ADULTS WITH MENTAL-RETARDATION BY OTHER CONSUMERS

All allegations of sexual abuse of adults with mental retardation by other adults with mental retardation over a five year period were examined. There were 72 cases substantiated with a total of 49 perpetrators. In all 72 cases, sexual abuse of one adult with mental retardation by another occurred; however, the perpetrator was deemed culpable in 31 cases, abuse and neglect were confirmed in six cases and facility neglect accounted for the remaining 35 cases. Victims were represented in all levels of mental retardation and had few secondary disabilities. Men were found to be at as much risk of sexual abuse as women. Ninety-four percent of the perpetrators were men and 81% had or still do live in large congregate settings. Findings were congruent with the theories that perpetrators with mental retardation victimize men and women at similar rates, that living in congregate settings results in significant risks, and that men and women with mental retardation need to be provided with the skills necessary to identify what constitutes sexual abuse and what actions to take to prevent it.