PREDICTORS OF INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE IN WOMEN’S SAME SEX RELATIONSHIPS

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a widespread occurrence in the United States, particularly in women’s same sex relationships. Unfortunately, little is understood about the factors that contribute to the prevalence of same sex IPV and women often have few resources available to provide the necessary education on this issue. The purpose of the current study is to evaluate a prediction model of characteristics associated with IPV in same sex couples. Using logistic regression and multiple regression analyses, this study tests the likelihood that negative dyadic dependence on one’s partner, childhood sexual abuse, psychological symptoms, a negative family environment, internalized homophobia, and disclosure of one’s sexual orientation predict the experience of IPV. Model indicators where used to predict sexual, psychological, physical, and LGB specific forms of IPV. The sample included 699 women in a same sex relationship for at least 6 months, with a range of gender and sexual identities across the United States. Results suggest that experiencing internalized homophobia and childhood sexual abuse greatly increase the likelihood of IPV, as well as negative dyadic dependence, psychological symptoms, and age. Implications on sex education, sociocultural considerations, and therapeutic interventions are discussed