An occupational therapy approach to sexuality in people with acquired brain injury in a subacute setting

Abstract

[Abstract] To analyze if people with acquired brain injury in sub-acute situation, as well as their relatives and/or partners, consider relevant the approach to sexuality during their Occupational Therapy intervention. This study presents a qualitative design with a phenomenological approach. Twelve participants were interviewed: eight people with acquired brain injury, two relatives and two partners who agreed to participate. The information has been collected through interviews. According to the interviews, the following categories have emerged: changes and everyday life, the taboo of sex and its relation to gender and the relevance of counselling. Participants consider sexuality as another activity of daily living, which has been modified due to acquired brain injury. Not only does the taboo of sex condition the subject, but it is also influenced by the individual’s gender. In addition, the counselling by the professionals involved in the rehabilitation process is the main intervention claimed by the participants of this study. The participants consider sexuality as an activity of daily living. Therefore, the occupational therapist who follows the holistic conception of the people must consider sexuality in the intervention process.