An ecological approach to understanding help-seeking by lesbians experiencing intimate partner violence

Abstract : There is limited research on lesbian intimate partner violence (IPV), and even less on the various factors that facilitate or hinder help-seeking in lesbian relationships after exposure to IPV. This subject is explored in this study using the ecological model, which is commonly applied when researching sexual violence or intimate partner violence. The study is qualitative in nature and used semi-structured interviews to gather data from six self-identified lesbians, and 2 bisexuals, who had been exposed to intimate partner violence. These women bravely shared their experiences of personal and socio-cultural factors that influenced their help-seeking. The study found three main themes, namely, (i) abuse exists in lesbian intimate relationships and is often accompanied by insecurities and cheating; (ii) help-seeking is a complex issue, influenced by various factors, with informal sources of support by far outweighing formal sources; and (iii) formal service providers are perceived as unhelpful. Recommendations provided in this study centre on further exploration of the complexity of lesbian relationships and how service providers can better equip themselves to respond to intimate partner violence.M.A. (Clinical Social Work