Domestic Violence

Domestic and intimate partner abuse is well documented among GLBT couple as is the reluctance to report it because of the fear (or reality) of institutional indifference or homophobia.  Additionally internalized shame or fear is as active in these same-sex situations as can be present in heterosexual instances.  While patterns may differ between GLBT and heterosexual couples the impact on the individuals is very similar.  The incorrect assumption among providers that there are no power differentials between same sex couples is inaccurate and may lead to a failure to investigate or address domestic or intimate partner abuse with GLBT clients.