Citation

Urry K, Chur-Hansen A. J. Health Psychol. 2018; ePub(ePub): 1359105318790026.

Affiliation

The University of Adelaide, Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1359105318790026

PMID

30035634

Abstract

Sexuality is a central aspect of human experience but there is evidence that this is largely constrained, pathologised or ignored in mental health settings. We conducted in-depth interviews with 22 psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health nurses working across a variety of settings in four Australian cities. Sexuality was most often perceived as relevant in the mental health setting when it was simultaneously constructed as dangerous. Participants located this danger in sexual expression itself or within individuals who, because of mental illness, lacked the autonomy required to successfully engage in 'safe' sex. We discuss these findings and their implications for research and professional practice.

Language: en

Keywords

mental health; personal autonomy; professional practice; sexual health; sexuality