JOURNAL ARTICLE

Addressing impacts of communication and swallowing disabilities on sexuality and intimacy: Practices of speech-language pathologists.

  • Published In: Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, 2025, v. 34, n. 3. P. 510 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Day, Francis B.; Hickey, Ellen M. 3 of 3

Abstract

This article investigates the current practices of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in Canada regarding addressing sexuality and intimacy concerns among adults with communication and swallowing disabilities. A survey of 56 SLPs revealed that nearly two-thirds address aspects of sexuality and intimacy—most commonly gender roles and dating—though most wait for clients to initiate discussions and lack specific strategies for doing so. While SLPs recognize their role in this area, they often defer responsibility to clients and other health professionals, with limited use of established models like the BETTER model. The study highlights gaps in education, inconsistent practice, and the need for further research on effective interventions and client outcomes related to sexuality and intimacy in speech-language pathology.

Additional Information

  • Source:Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality. 2025/12, Vol. 34, Issue 3, p510
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:1188-4517
  • DOI:10.3138/cjhs-2025-0023
  • Accession Number:190389437
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality is the property of University of Toronto Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Looking to go deeper into this topic? Look for more articles on EBSCOhost.