Publication Date
Winter 12-1-2024
Presentation Length
Poster/Gallery presentation
College
College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
Department
Mental Health Counseling, School of
Student Level
Graduate
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Mitchell Waters
Presentation Type
Poster
Summary
Intimate partner violence (IPV), including intimate partner sexual violence (IPSV), is a public health crisis that disproportionately affects members of the LGBTQ+ community. This paper draws upon related, though limited, research to identify the five prevalent myths surrounding IPSV in LGBTQ+ relationships, addressing the following misconceptions: 1) IPSV can only occur in heterosexual relationships, 2) IPSV in LGBTQ+ relationships is not as severe, 3) Women cannot commit acts of sexual violence, 4) The more “masculine” partner is always the perpetrator, and 5) IPSV is a “mutual fight” among partners of the same sex. These myths perpetuate victim-blaming, minimize the severity of violence in queer relationships, and prevent LGBTQ+ survivors from seeking help– all factors that exacerbate their trauma. The paper explores how these myths manifest among different LGBTQ+ identities and relationships, and discusses the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ survivors in recognizing, reporting, & escaping IPV/IPSV . Finally, the paper outlines strategies for dispelling these pervasive myths, including improved services for LGBTQ+ survivors, culturally competent interventions, and the need for further research on this critical issue.
Recommended Citation
Whitten, Nora K., "Challenging Myths & Addressing Intimate Partner Sexual Violence in LGBTQ+ Relationships" (2024). SPARK Symposium Presentations. 686.
https://repository.belmont.edu/spark_presentations/686
Included in
Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence Commons, Gender and Sexuality Commons, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons, Other Public Health Commons, Trauma Commons
Comments
There was no option to put for "Independent Presentation" under the SPARK session portion. Mine will be an independent presentation and does not fit into the other sessions as far as I am aware.