It is estimated that nearly 30,000 people with intellectual disabilities live in Lithuania, and many of them require assistance almost daily. The daily challenges faced by these individuals vary but experts agree that one of the most urgent issues is abuse and its recognition.
According to experts, due to their dependence on others, people with intellectual disabilities tend to trust those around them, making them more vulnerable.
Accepting Abuse as a Given
“People with mild disabilities are very similar to people without disabilities. Without the necessary support, however, they often become victims of abuse, human trafficking, or other forms of exploitation. People with moderate intellectual disabilities are unable to think abstractly or live independently, so they often live with their parents or in social care institutions. People with severe intellectual disabilities often suffer from various other disabilities, so they almost always live with family and require 24-hour assistance,” says disability rights expert Dana Migaliova.
According to her, people with intellectual disabilities can easily become targets for criminals and often experience domestic violence, which they are unfortunately unable to recognise themselves.
“People with mild or moderate disabilities often do not even understand that they are being abused; they believe that it is just the way things are. Without help, they often succumb to the influence of others, experience economic or sexual exploitation, and become targets for criminals from outside,” says D. Migaliova.
Women – Even More at Risk
A 2024 survey of Lithuanian society revealed that 4 out of 10 citizens agree that women with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities provoke violence against themselves. According to those surveyed, these women are more likely to exaggerate the violence when speaking about it.
Even more shocking is the fact that 48 % of respondents agree that a woman with an intellectual disability can be forced to terminate a pregnancy without her consent. This may be related to a lack of information and lingering stereotypical views.
How to Recognise Abuse and Help?
The types of abuse faced by people with disabilities can vary greatly, and not all of them are immediately recognisable. However, there are signs that may clearly indicate that a person with an intellectual disability is experiencing abuse.
“Excessive attraction to the opposite sex, excessive desire for physical contact, or undressing in public places may signal sexual abuse. Another form of abuse is neglect. This can be recognised by a dishevelled appearance, dirty clothes, especially in the case of people with more severe disabilities. It is important to pay attention to these things,” says D. Migaliova.
If you notice these or other concerning signs, do not remain indifferent and seek help.
