Representações sociais da pessoa com deficiência no campo da sexualidade

Abstract

This undergraduate thesis aims to analyze the social representations of people with disabilities within the field of sexuality, based on the Theory of Social Representations developed by Serge Moscovici. Four recent academic studies were selected and analyzed, addressing the topic from various perspectives: media, education, healthcare, and subjective experiences. The findings reveal that the sexuality of people with disabilities is still shaped by historical stereotypes such as asexuality, infantilization, and denial of desire. These representations are reinforced by media, family, and institutional discourses, limiting the autonomy and rights of these individuals. However, the studies also highlight resistance and symbolic re-signification movements initiated by people with disabilities themselves, challenging normative discourses and constructing new ways of experiencing their sexuality. The study concludes that understanding and deconstructing these social representations is essential to promoting inclusive practices and public policies that recognize people with disabilities as full subjects of desire, affection, and rights. Keywords: Disability; Sexuality; Social representations.