Sexuality and disability: From eugenic sterilization to the acknowledgement of sexual rights (1980-2016)

Objectives. - This article presents the major stages in the way that the sexuality of persons labeled as "mentally handicapped/disabled" has been taken into account since the 1980s. Light is shed on the link between, on the one hand, social representations and, on the other, institutional and social practices. Method. - This study uses documents from the period including scientific publications, proceedings of congresses, advisory opinions (administrative and ethical). Results. - The analysis brings to light an evolution of ideas in the attitudes toward, and care provided to, the so-called "mentally disabled" whose sexuality has gradually come to be recognized. A major factor in this recognition was the prevention of infection by the HIV in the early 1980s. A new stage in the handling of sexuality opened with proposals for setting up a form of "sexual assistance" with the participation of "surrogates partners" with the goal of intervening directly on behaviors and relationships. The possibility of having children is still considered to be a problem. Conclusion. - This group's sexual rights are not yet fully recognized. Placement in specialized institutions still maintains these persons in a relative social isolation. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.