"There's so much at stake": sexual minority youth discuss dating violence
Gillum, T.L.; DiFulvio, G.
Violence Against Women 18(7): 725-745
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 1552-8448 PMID: 22831848 DOI: 10.1177/1077801212455164Document Number: 565692
The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of dating violence among a sample of sexual minority youth. Focus groups were conducted as part of a larger study that surveyed 109 sexual minority youth between the ages of 18 and 24 years. Participants identified four main themes contributing to dating violence among same-sex couples: homophobia (societal and internalized); negotiating socially prescribed gender roles; assumed female connection; and other relationship issues. Such information is essential for determining the need for and content of dating violence services, including education, safety planning, and referrals for mental and physical health services for sexual minority youth.