52 - The Effects of Ableism on Intimate Relationships

We're talking about the effects of ableism on intimate relationships. We're talking with my colleague at Radiant Abilities, Alexa Strickland. Alexa is a Mental Health Counselor and Trainer who has researched ableism, sexuality, and intimate relationships.

In Alexa's research, The Effects of Ableism on People With Disabilities in Intimate Relationships,  the premise was “the purpose of this study is to examine the effects of ableism on PWDs in intimate relationships using the Ableism and Relationships survey to assess experiences of ableism in dating and relationships and how these experiences may affect their self-esteem and confidence, sense of sexuality, and their ability to form intimate relationships.” Alexa does a great job breaking down what this means.

She also discusses both the type/severity of a disability can influence attitudes towards PWDs in intimate relationships.

We talk about the challenges participants experienced in dating/relationships such as rejection, receiving hurtful/discriminatory comments about their disability, and perceived as asexual/unattractive.

Alexa shares a sampling of the answers to these questions:

What challenges have you experienced in dating or relationships? 

Do you feel like this challenge(s) makes it difficult to form intimate or meaningful relationships with others? 

She wraps up by talking about the three biggest takeaways you had from the research.

As with most of my guests, we chat about the particular challenges for people with disabilities in dating and relationships, as well as societal changes needed to see people with disabilities as dating and relationships partners.

Alexa also shares the most helpful advice you can give for someone with a disability in search of dating success and healthy relationships.

Lastly, she mentions the two new groups she's beginning on Acceptance, Disability, and Relationships and Managing Anxiety.  Open to NYS residents. Contact Alexa for more details.

Resources 

Free download - Rising Above Sexual Ableism. Use this download as a resource for strengthening your skills live the life you want and have the relationships you want.

Credits
Music by Successful Motivation
Artwork photo by Elevate

Check out our Dating Memberships:

Dating Made Easier (for all people wanting to date) - is a monthly membership for anyone (with or without disabilities) who wants support and guidance in dating skills and getting the RESULTS you want in dating and relationships. Click here to learn more.

Supporting Dating and Relationships membership (for special educators and professionals in disability services) - is for professionals in the disability field who are looking for training and resources to effectively help students/people with disabilities in developing dating and relationship skills. Click here to learn more.

Music by Successful Motivation |
Artwork photo by Elevate