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The impact of gender stereotypes on the recognition of domestic violence in lesbian* relationships: Towards better support for LGBQ+ victims.

par Eyraud, Fiona ;Klein, Olivier ;Annalisa, Casini
Référence European Conference on Domestic Violence(September 3-5th: Barcelone (Spain))
Publication A Paraître, 2025-09-03

Abstract de conférence

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Résumé :

Domestic violence in lesbian relationships is often minimized due to prevailing gender stereotypes portraying women as inherently non-violent and lesbian relationships as utopias (Barnes, 2011, Eyraud et al., 2024). This creates barriers to recognizing, naming, and addressing violence in same-sex female relationships. Our research examines how these stereotypes affect the identification of physical, psychological, and sexual violence among lesbian partners, particularly within a sociopolitical context marked by hostility towards LGBTI communities. This experimental, quantitative study replicates findings from prior research (Hine et al., 2022; Seelau et al., 2003; Wise & Bowman, 1997) on intimate partner violence and gender stereotypes with a focus on lesbian populations, often overlooked in research (Lee & Crawford, 2007). Using vignettes that manipulate the type of violence and gender of the perpetrator, we measure participants’ perceptions of severity and culpability. The study is also informed by a qualitative study consisting of focus groups with lesbians*, which reveal a high prevalence and a significant gap in tailored support services in Belgium. Preliminary findings suggest consistent minimization of violence in lesbian relationships, emphasizing the urgent need to challenge stereotypes and address the lack of interventions in Belgium, as in Europe. This presentation will discuss the theoretical framework, methods, and initial findings, as well as their implications for policy and practice. By collaborating with grassroots organizations in France and Belgium (VMQ, ASQF), this research aims to bridge the gap between scientific evidence and practice, contributing to the development of effective strategies to combat domestic violence in LGBQ+ relationships, including psychotherapy support groups (Bordeleau & O’Brien, 2009), which are currently lacking in both countries.