Commentary: the internet, social media, relationships and sex

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use Bates’ paper as a springboard to consider the potential impact of the internet on the personal and intimate lives of people with learning disabilities including opportunities to gain support.

Design/methodology/approach

Key literature is reviewed alongside the author’s experiences in working with people with learning disabilities on sexual issues.

Findings

The literature prioritises internet safety for people with learning disabilities. There is limited attention to how people can be supported to use social media to enhance their social and/or sexual lives.

Originality/value

The commentary challenges the reader to consider how the internet and social media can be used to help people with learning disabilities develop and maintain relationships including sexual relationships.

Citation

Thompson, D. (2019), "Commentary: the internet, social media, relationships and sex", Tizard Learning Disability Review, Vol. 24 No. 1, pp. 20-23. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLDR-11-2018-0031