Experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender within mainstream community: a systematic review of qualitative studies.

Objective: The objective of this review is to identify, appraise, and synthesize the available qualitative evidence on the lived experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender in mainstream society.

Introduction: People with intellectual disabilities who identify with a non-normative sexual orientation and gender identity (eg, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual) are dually stigmatized due to the prevailing notion of ableism and heteronormativity within the wider society. This layered stigma can generate further segregation within society, increasing vulnerability in this population and limiting their facilitation of a meaningful and satisfying life.