Insiders or outsiders: normalisation and women with learning difficulties

This paper examines changing attitudes towards women with learning difficul ties within the culture of normalisation. It builds on earlier critiques of the normalisation principle and, whilst welcoming these, argues the case f or looking at women in particular. The authors review literature on sex edu cation for people with learning difficulties to illustrate rite ways in whi ch gender has been ignored and women's sexuality has been treated. Writing from their perspective as lesbian feminists, they explore the oppressive na ture of sex education in a culture that places a premium on normality. The paper ends with a discussion of alternative ways for women with learning di fficulties to gain a sense of identity and belonging.