Introduction to abuse, trauma and supporting people with developmental disability

People with disability are more vulnerable to abuse than the general population. In addition to their intellectual, psychological or physical disability, they are often exposed to other risk factors for abuse¹². These include communication difficulties, living in residential or institutional settings, and reliance upon caregivers. The vulnerability of people with disability is often exacerbated by social disadvantage and isolation.

Up to a quarter of children with developmental disability experience violence, and they are 3 to 4 times more likely to be victims of violence than their peers without disability. Despite mandatory reporting, the prevalence of violence and abuse experienced by people with developmental disability is likely to be underestimated due to under-reporting or lack of identification. For advice on recognising and reporting abuse, see How to recognise abuse and trauma and What to do if you suspect a person with developmental disability is being or has been abused.

Abuse may be identified at the time it occurs, or afterwards due to its effects manifesting later. Abuse can have a variety of forms; see Forms of abuse.

For people with developmental disability, physical and psychological trauma can result from any form of abuse. Trauma can occur from acute events, repetitive chronic abuse, or complex abusive episodes or relationships (see Developmental and complex trauma). Trauma can also be related to medical care (eg medical procedures).