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Abstract
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AUTHOR'S ABSTRACT:
In contrast to the plethora of research available on domestic violence in heterosexual couples, violence in lesbian relationships has only recently begun to be addressed. This study examined the prevalence and severity of violence in 90 lesbian couples. Those couples in which abuse was evident were compared with those in which there was no evidence of on-going violence. The groups were compared on the following variables: (1) inter-partner reliability in reports of conflict tactics; (2) levels of cohesion and adaptability as measured by FACES III (Olson, et al., 1985); (3) status incompatibility; and (4) status inconsistency. The research used a cross-sectional non-experimental design. All 180 individuals (90 couples) filled out a 12 page self-report questionnaire, which included a revised version of the Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS), (Straus, 1979), as a measure of violence. Several items were added to the CTS in order to assess a wider range of behaviors and make the scale more appropriate for lesbians. Following a factor analysis, participants were divided into two groups based on the level of violence in their relationships. There were 48 couples in the non-violent group and 42 couples in the violent group. The results of the factor analysis, as well as the method of classification, are presented and discussed. The study found that partners in the violent group were more disparate in their reports of conflict tactics, had lower levels of adaptability, and had a greater degree of status inconsistency than partners in the non-violent group. In addition, partners in the violent group reported significantly higher levels of drug and alcohol use. All of the couples evidenced very high levels of emotional closeness (cohesion). There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of self or others being physically or sexually abused in family of origin. The relationship between violence and several other variables of interest (such as current therapy, degree out as lesbian, length of current relationship, and cohabiting versus living separately) are presented and discussed. Finally, limitations of the current study, areas of future research, and clinical implications of the study are discussed. (Abstract Adapted from Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, 1991. Copyright © 1991 by Vallerie Elizabeth Coleman; University Microfilms International)
Homosexual Abuse Incidence and Prevalence
Homosexual Abuse Victim
Homosexual Adult
Homosexual Female
Homosexual Victim
Homosexual Offender
Homosexual Abuse Offender
Domestic Violence Incidence and Prevalence
Domestic Violence Offender
Domestic Violence Victim
Domestic Violence Victim
Female Offender
Female Victim
Adult Female
Adult Offender
Adult Victim
Adult Violence
Partner Violence
Violence Against Women
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