Sex between psychiatric inpatients

Psychiatric Quarterly volume 57, pages121–126(1985)Cite this article

Abstract

This report reviews the literature on the subject of sexual activity between psychiatric inpatients. The author discusses the psychological reasons why patients engage in sexual activity as well as the possible psychological effects. In addition, the author discusses medical considerations including concerns about injury, pregnancy, and venereal disease and legal implications including issues related to wrongful life, wrongful birth and deteriorating mental condition resulting from sexual activity. The report also discusses ethical issues, staff attitudes and various options for management of sexual activity between patients.

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Author information

Affiliations

  1. director of the Crisis Intervention Unit at Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute and assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco

    Dr. Renée L. Binder M.D.

Authors
  1. Dr. Renée L. Binder M.D.
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Correspondence to Dr. Renée L. Binder M.D..

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Binder, R.L. Sex between psychiatric inpatients. Psych Quart 57, 121–126 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01064330

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Keywords

  • Public Health
  • Mental Condition
  • Sexual Activity
  • Ethical Issue
  • Psychological Effect