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LGBTQ RELATIONSHIPS
What if you can relate to the signs of abuse and violence you have read on the preceding pages, but you are lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender, queer, or questioning? Partner violence for LGBTQ couples looks, feels, and presents just like violence in a heterosexual
relationship. These are some important things for LGBTQ teens who are experiencing dating violence to be aware of:
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You are not alone. Although LGBTQ partner violence has been less documented and studied, statistics show that rates of LGBTQ
partner violence are comparable to heterosexual partner violence.
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Along with all the other previously listed ways that partner violence may occur, in LGBTQ relationships, a partner may threaten to
“out you” or disclose your sexual orientation to friends, parents, teachers, etc. A partner may make this threat as a means of
controlling your actions or keeping you in the relationship.
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Whether you are female-identified or male-identified, either person in the relationship is as likely to be the victim or the
perpetrator.
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People who are female-identified can abuse other people who are female-identified, and people who are female-identified can
abuse people who are male-identified.
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You may find that your friend groups overlap with your partner, i.e. you go to the same support group at school, share friends,
and attend the Gay-Straight Alliance. This can feel isolating, if you are concerned that people might not believe you or you may
lose friends.
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Due to institutionalized heterosexism, homophobia, transphobia, and misogyny, it can be harder to find support in t B