Domestic violence and sexuality

Abstract

This book provides the first detailed discussion in the UK of domestic violence and abuse (DVA) in same sex relationships, offering a unique comparison with DVA experienced by heterosexual women and men. It examines how experiences of DVA may be shaped by gender, sexuality and age, including whether and how victims/survivors seek help, and asks, what’s love got to do with it? A pioneering methodology, using both quantitative and qualitative research, challenges the heteronormative model in domestic violence research, policy and practice. The findings show similarities and differences in experiences of DVA across sexuality and gender, although DVA in both same sex and heterosexual relationships can be characterised as the exertion of power and control. There are differences by gender in same sex DVA relationships, with gay men significantly more likely to experience sexual violence and have their spending controlled. Young age, low income and low education predict particular vulnerabilities to DVA in same sex relationships, and being newly out can position somebody as younger and more vulnerable to abuse regardless of biological age. Practices of love are instrumental in establishing relationship rules across sexuality and gender, and are gendered in complex ways: an abusive partner can be needy/express need (associated with femininity) whilst also being the key decision-maker in the relationship (associated with masculinity. The book concludes with implications for practice and service development, including the new COHSAR wheel, building on the Duluth wheel by incorporating intersectionality, relationship rules and practices of love as well as power and control.