Sexuality, Disability, and the Law

Michael L. Perlin is Professor Emeritus of Law at New York Law School, USA; Founding Director, International Mental Disability Law Reform Project, and Co-Founder, Mental Disability Law and Policy AssociatesAlison J. Lynch is Staff Attorney at Disability Rights New York.

• 1.Introduction2.The Four Factors: Sanism, Pretextuality, Heuristics and 'Ordinary Common Sense'3.Perspectives from the Law4.Social Policy Issues5.Gender, Society, and Sexuality6.Therapeutic Jurisprudence

"Q: When do we not even want to THINK about sex? A: When institutionalized persons with mental disabilites are involved! The complete lack of attention has led to diametrically opposed views, ranging from "they have no interest and will be exploited" to "they are uncontrollable predators who will put many at risk." Now, finally, a full-volume full-discussion by Michael Perlin and Alison Lynch in a beautifully written and analyzed book brings therapeutic jurisprudence to the rescue, arguing for carefully constructed policies based on the "3 Vs" of voice, validation, and voluntary participation. It is a wonderful book that will bring this issue to center stage in disability law circles. " - David B. Wexler, Professor of Law and Director, International Network on Therapeutic Jurisprudence, University of Puerto Rico; Distinguished Research Professor of Law Emeritus, University of Arizona, USA