During this chaotic period of transitioning into adulthood, important socialization skills are learned, especially the development of intimate relationships. Dating and trying to gain acceptance from peers can be very traumatic for any young adult, but the effort required of people with cerebral palsy can be draining. They may have to use 100 percent of their energy just to keep up with their peers who are using 25 percent. As they move into an adult environment with more competition and without the protected environment at school or a supportive home environment, individuals with cerebral palsy often experience fatigue, both from increased psychological stress of dealing with a less welcoming environment and from the physical stress of the increased physical demands present in the college or work environment. They may get worn down from fighting to keep up with their new environment and peers.

Young adults are quite self-conscious and concerned about their personal image, and they often consider their partners an extension of themselves. A young man often tries to enhance his self-image by being seen with an attractive young woman, and vice versa. The stresses generated by the cultural focus on physical appearance are present not only for the person who has cerebral palsy, but for many people who may not be considered as beautiful. This is also a stage in life, however, when individuals are learning that there is more to a person than his or her appearance. It becomes clear that a relationship is much more dependent on communication, understanding, mutual care and concern.

At times some people with disabilities find it difficult to meet people in normal dating environments filled with strangers, as there are many very real physical and psychological barriers present between themselves and other non-disabled people. An example of a physical barrier might be meeting someone, but being unable to visit them in their home because you are in a wheelchair and there building isn’t wheelchair accessible. If you are encountering this problem, there are dating services for disabled people that are usually centered on special interests, social activities, and spiritual concerns. You might try Date Able, a well-known and respected dating service for people with disabilities, or the personals section of Accent on Living, a magazine for people with disabilities.

An adult who is only mildly to moderately impaired will probably have no more trouble transitioning to adulthood than a non-disabled person. College, a full-time and fulfilling career and a family are all completely possible for a person with a disability, depending on the severity of their impairment. An adult with an impairment is different from an adult with a disability. A person with an impairment can go about daily life without their condition affecting their ability to function, while a person with a disability will likely need some assistance in the activities of daily life.

Many young adults with disabilities and normal intelligence get married, although it’s usually at a later age than someone without a disability. Research suggests, however, that fewer people with disabilities get married than the age-matched non-disabled population.

Every person’s transition into adulthood will be different, and having a disability such as cerebral palsy does not change that. While there may be more obstacles to overcome, a person who has cerebral palsy has the opportunity to live independently, marry and possibly raise a family, and obtain a fulfilling career.