A UK-wide multi-method study (2005–2006) comparing domestic abuse in same-sex vs. heterosexual relationships, using a community survey (n=746), five focus groups (n=21), and semi-structured interviews (n=67) with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer adults.
Over one-third of same-sex survey respondents (38.4%) self-reported domestic abuse; 77.8% reported emotional abuse ever, 40.1% physical abuse ever, and 40.5% sexual abuse ever. Most survivors sought help informally (friends: 57.9%), while only 9% contacted police. About 22% sought no help at all.
Sample was community-recruited (not random), so prevalence figures cannot be generalized to all same-sex couples. The survey was predominantly white (94.8%) and higher-income, limiting ethnic and socioeconomic diversity. Reliance on self-report and self-definition of abuse likely led to underreporting, especially for rape and emotional abuse.
Clinicians and public agencies should not assume domestic abuse is a heterosexual-only problem — same-sex survivors rarely self-identify or seek formal help, often fearing disbelief or heterosexist responses. Training on same-sex domestic abuse and proactive, non-assumptive screening are needed across criminal justice, primary care, and LGBT services.
Explore related topics
