Domestic Violence in Same-Sex Relationships

Domestic violence refers to abusive behavior including assault, battery, intimidation, or sexual assault perpetrated by an individual against their partner. Domestic violence can take several forms. It may include physical aggression such as hitting, punching, kicking, or throwing objects. It can also include psychological abuse including intimidation, threats, and controlling behavior. Both men and women can be the victims of domestic violence and both men and women can be perpetrators of it.

Domestic violence in California is unfortunately not a rare phenomenon. Approximately 33% of California women and 27% of California men have experienced or will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes.

A Larger Problem

When domestic violence is discussed, many people think of a heterosexual woman as the victim. This is not always the case. A man can also be a victim of domestic violence and the victims are not always heterosexual. A study from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago suggests that domestic violence in same-sex couples is happening more often than in opposite-sex couples. Psychologist Richard Carroll, who co-authored the report, believes that stress caused by being a minority may be a reason for the higher rates of domestic violence. He explains, “There are external stressors, like discrimination and violence against gays, and there are internal stressors, such as internalized negative attitudes about homosexuality.”

Some people in same-sex relationships do not report violence in their relationship because they are worried about being outed by authorities. Victims may not be comfortable with their friends, family, or coworkers knowing that they are in a homosexual relationship. Many worry that if they are outed that they will be treated differently or discriminated against. Other individuals in same-sex relationships have a negative self-image and may project those negative feelings onto a partner or they may internalize them. Similar to opposite-sex relationships, some of those in same-sex relationships believe they are deserving of abuse due to negative beliefs about themselves.

Facing Accusations of Domestic Violence?

While there is no question that domestic violence and abuse are serious problems in today’s society, those who are accused of such behavior are often presumed to be guilty—even without evidence. At our law firm, we believe every defendant is innocent until proven guilty, including those charged with domestic abuse.

If you are facing such charges, contact an experienced San Jose criminal defense attorney. Call 408-277-0377 to schedule a confidential consultation with Wesley J. Schroeder, Attorney at Law, today.

Source:

http://ncadv.org/images/California%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-29994648