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Domestic violence occurs in all different types of relationships despite economic status, sexual orientation, gender identity or religion. Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors used by one person to maintain power and control over another person in an intimate or family relationship. In recognition of June PRIDE month, we want to focus the conversation on the LGBTQ+ communities.
Surveys have found that LGBTQ+ individuals experience domestic violence at higher rates than heterosexuals.
- Forty-four percent of lesbian women, 61% of bisexual women, and 35% of
heterosexual women experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an
intimate partner in their lifetime. - Twenty-six percent of gay men, 37% of bisexual men, and 29% of heterosexual
men experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner
at some point in their lifetime. - Approximately 1 in 5 bisexual women (22%) and nearly 1 in 10 heterosexual
women (9%) have been raped by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
There are many hesitations and challenges that an LGBTQ+ individual may face that are different than a heterosexual individual.
- An LGBTQ+ individual may already have less support from family and friends, making it more difficult to leave their partner because they may not have anyone to go to.
- They may fear not receiving help and services from law enforcement, social workers or the criminal justice system because of discrimination or stereotypes, or that services may not be inclusive of their identity.
- If an LGBTQ+ couple has children, some victims may fear that their children will be taken away.
Although LGBTQ+ relationships may have many similarities to heterosexual relationships, with the same patterns of violence and control, there are a few differences that may exist.
- Bullying a transgender partner may include disrespecting their pronouns or chosen name and ridiculing their body.
- Threats to out them if they haven’t come out publicly yet.
- Trying to argue that women cannot abuse women, or men cannot abuse men; it’s just fighting.
In the end, NO ONE DESERVES TO BE ABUSED AND SHOULD ALWAYS HAVE HELP AVAILABLE TO THEM. Alternatives to Violence serves all survivors. We provide emergency shelter, advocacy, education and resources for people impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. If you, or someone you know, is in an unhealthy relationship please call us at 970-669-5150 or text 970-669-5157.