Explain and categorize intimate partner violence in same sex relationships.
Intimate partner violence in same sex relationships is the same as in heterosexual relationship, in which one partner abuses the other either sexually, physically or mentally. However, the issue gets more complicated in same-sex relationships as there are some partners that have “come out” and others are “outed” by their partners. (Duke & Davidson, 2009)
What are some implications of failure to acknowledge the potential for violence in same sex relationships?
One of the implications of not acknowledging same-sex intimate partner violence is that lesbian victims find it hard to find support. As most of the domestic violence campaigns show the straight woman as the victim, it is very difficult for some people to accept that a woman would harm her partner.
Similarly, gay men in abusive relationships find it hard to find support too. There is a myth that same-sex relationships are free from violence, and people find it hard to believe that a man could not defend himself. (Shwayder, 2013)
Furthermore, there is also a peer pressure of letting down the community. As same-sex partners fight for their rights, such abusive relationships in the community show that same-sex relationships are actually the same as heterosexual relationships.
Propose advocacy methods for improving resources available to victims of domestic violence in same sex relationships.
One of the ways is to use gender neural vocabulary in existing domestic violence advertising campaigns. Advertising campaigns are being run through flyers, posters, TV ads, etc. There should also be a website available, along with 24 hour hotlines to provide assistance to same-sex intimate violence victims. Other advocacy methods include providing training to existing advocates that provide services to survivors of domestic violence. There should also be more research on same-sex domestic violence to increase its knowledge base and awareness. (Duke & Davidson, 2009)
References
Duke, A., & Davidson, M. M. (2009). Same-Sex Intimate Partner Violence: Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Affirmative Outreach and Advocacy. Journal Of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, 18(8), 795-816. doi:10.1080/10926770903291787
Shwayder, M. (2013). A Same-Sex Domestic Violence Epidemic Is Silent. The Atlantic. Retrieved from http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2013/11/a-same-sex-domestic-violence-epidemic-is-silent/281131/
