Citation

De Vidas M. J. Gay Lesbian Soc. Serv. 2000; 10(2): 51.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J041v10n02_03

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Gay/lesbian support groups addressing diverse issues, as opposed to mixed groups with heterosexual and gay/lesbian members, may provide greater feelings of safety for gay men and lesbians to discuss common concerns without homophobic and heterosexist reactions from other group members. This article presents a group which formed in a mental health clinic, serving a primarily Latino community. Group members introduced the two topics of childhood sexual abuse and gay/ lesbian domestic violence in the group discussions. Misconceptions about these issues are addressed in the contexts of Latino culture and gay/lesbian identity. Case vignettes illustrate the traumatic experiences of childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence revealed by group members.