Sexual attitudes, experience and relationships amongst patients in a high security hospital.
BACKGROUND
Detention in high security hospitals tends to last several years during patients' early adulthood, yet romantic partnerships and sexuality have been little studied.


OBJECTIVE
To study such relationships among these inpatients.


METHODS
Patients were engaged in a confidential, purpose-designed semi-structured interview concerning their relationships and their views on those of others.


RESULTS
Seven (of 10) women and 18 (of 24) men gave interviews. All but one had previously been sexually active. No previous relationship lasted into high security but half (15) reported a new relationship. Most emphasized the importance of caring in respect of sexual activity but sexual intimacy short of intercourse was reported. Most (17) could describe 'safe sex' practices, but few (5) had ever followed them. At least half had experienced seriously abusive sexual relationships in childhood.


CONCLUSIONS
Patients appeared able to talk reliably about their romantic and sexual relationships, their interest in which did not cease on incarceration. Findings suggest that it is important for staff to have accurate information on these to ensure safety and adequate support.
Hales
Heidi
H
The Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust, London, UK. HHales@tavi-port.nhs.uk
Romilly
Crystal
C
Davison
Sophie
S
Taylor
Pamela J
PJ
D000328:Adult; D001290:Attitude; D002648:Child; D002650:Child Abuse, Sexual / Q000523:psychology; D003134:Commitment of Persons with Psychiatric Disorders; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000523:psychology; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology*; D021841:Safe Sex; D012637:Security Measures; D012725:Sexual Behavior