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. 2025 Jan;38(1):e70010.
doi: 10.1111/jar.70010.

Exploring the Intersection of Gender Diversity and Intellectual Disability: A Scoping Review With a Focus on Clinical Care

Kady F Sternberg  1 , Joanna G Cloutier  2 , Kaitlyn Ahlers  1   3 , Christina Moore  4 , Kathleen A Koth  5 , Takahiro Soda  6 , Narpinder Kaur Malhi  7 , Shikha Verma  8 , Lisa C Yeh  9 , Jennifer L McLaren  10
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Exploring the Intersection of Gender Diversity and Intellectual Disability: A Scoping Review With a Focus on Clinical Care

Kady F Sternberg et al. J Appl Res Intellect Disabil. 2025 Jan.

Abstract

Background: Little research has been conducted solely exploring gender diversity in people with intellectual disabilities. This review explores the literature, discusses the prevalence, and identifies clinical best practices for people at the intersection of gender diversity and intellectual disability.

Method: A scoping review was conducted utilising PRISMA methodology of the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL Complete (EBSCO), Cochrane Library (Wiley), Dissertations & Theses Global (ProQuest), PsycInfo (EBSCO), Scopus and Web of Science.

Results: Five hundred seventy five titles and abstracts were screened, 61 full-text articles were reviewed and 17 met inclusion criteria. Four major themes were identified: prevalence, trauma and co-occurring mental health disorders, barriers to care and best practices.

Conclusion: This review highlights the lack of research and provides valuable insight into the experiences of people with gender diversity and intellectual disability. Further research is needed to understand the prevalence and explore the intersection and experience of gender-diverse people with intellectual disabilities.

Keywords: gender diversity; intellectual developmental disorder; intellectual disability; transgender.

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