I am a Program Manager within the field of intellectual disability services.  I oversee community-based residential support services, including the implementation of Individual Support Plans and Behavior Support Plans.  I have found that individuals who possess the capability of accessing the internet and sites therein have gotten themselves into personal trouble, and even verged on civil charges.  Individuals with ID who have the capacity to manipulate the computer and internet search engines often are at high risk of exploitation.  Their level of functioning allows them the skill to engage in online chats and inappropriate site viewing, which can lead to consequences that they have difficulty processing.  Facebook, for example, has given one of my female individuals the opportuntiy to accept friend requests from stangers.  One of the male strangers convinced her to meet him in the park alone.  She was ultimately not harmed, however the potential for danger was frightening.  Our population is vulnerable to social and peer pressure, particularly those persons who might be able to access the internet.  Safety is paramount, and unrestricted access to the internet does not promote personal safety.  Specificity in the type of access would be necessary for most of this population to remain safe. 

I do beleive that having access to the internet as a privilage and/or when individuals demonstrate that they can safely manage the system is a wonderful experience for them.