Domestic violence comes in many forms. While some tend to think of it as abuse that occurs only between men and women, a number of studies and accounts dispel this notion. Domestic violence in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community is just as common as it is in other communities, even though a large amount of abuse goes unreported.
There are several reasons why this type of domestic violence remains undisclosed by victims, most of which stem from social stigmas and, in some cases, institutional restrictions. By recognizing the scope of the problem and the challenges facing victims of domestic violence in the LGBT community, we can loosen the grip of abuse on these victims and create a safer environment for survivors of abuse.
How Prevalent is Abuse in the LGBT Community?
It’s clear that domestic violence is not just a heterosexual problem. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence says that experts believe the rate of abuse in the LGBT community is just as high as it is among heterosexual couples. Gay and bisexual males suffer abuse in relationships at a rate on par with heterosexual women, which is around 2 out of every 5 people. Approximately half of all lesbians either will or already have experienced some form of domestic violence in their lives. Studies suggest that up to half of all transgender people have or will experience abuse from a partner in their lifetimes, too.
Why the Problem is Often Unreported
There are many stigmas that work against victims of domestic violence in the LGBT community. Many people aren’t aware that this type of abuse occurs, so cultural awareness of the problem is low. Homophobia and bias against transgender is still prevalent in our society, providing a barrier of understanding and empathy for gay and lesbian victims who have suffered domestic abuse.
Even some victims of domestic abuse in gay and lesbian relationships might be afraid to report their experiences, either because they are afraid of going public about problems within the LGBT community that might hurt the cause, or because they are not comfortable with discussing their own sexual orientation publicly. The NCADV says that one common form of abuse within the LGBT community is the threat of outing a partner who has not been public about their sexual orientation.
Some states do not recognize domestic abuse as anything other than violence in a heterosexual relationship, and many shelters accept only female victims of domestic violence. This leaves gay and transgender victims without a place to turn for help.
What Can Be Done?
What will it take to fix the problem? As we have seen in cases of domestic violence in heterosexual couples, there is a big challenge ahead. First, we have to raise cultural awareness and acceptance of the fact there is indeed a problem. States could broaden their laws to encompass all victims of domestic abuse, no matter what their gender or sexual orientation. The same goes for services offered to domestic abuse victims, including helplines and shelters.
There is evidence to suggest that domestic violence among heterosexuals has decreased over the past few years. Through our collective efforts, we can hope to see similar results for those who are suffering, often silently, in the LGBT community.
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