83% of women and 32% of males who have developmental disabilities are victims of sexual assault. Adolescent and young adults are the most at risk. Government policy recommends a shift from institution-based care to specialized care provided within the community, where persons with developmental disabilities may have the opportunity to live independently in the least restrictive setting. Transitioning developmentally disabled people from institutions to the community seems to be a positive choice, however there is a risk that the oversight and support care for this vulnerable population in the community may not be sufficient, opening the door to possible abuse and neglect according to an article written by Daniel Pollack a professor at the School of Social Work at Yeshiva University in New York and Jonathan Lerner in Youth Today.
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