Gay, Bisexual, and Queer Men’s Attitudes and Understandings of Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Assault

Abstract

Gay, bisexual, and queer (GBQ) men experience significant rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual assault (SA); however, there is limited research into their attitudes and understandings of IPV and SA. This article presents the findings of a 2018 survey of 895 GBQ men currently residing in Australia, focused on their views and experiences of healthy and unhealthy relationships. The survey included quantitative and open-ended qualitative questions. The findings presented in this article are primarily descriptive, with cross-tabulations and t tests to demonstrate significant differences between groups and correlational statistics to outline associations between variables. Qualitative data were coded under broad themes. The study found a considerable proportion of men (three in five) identified that they had experienced an unhealthy or abusive relationship in the past, with minimal disclosure to police or health services. Men with a history of partner abuse or violence were more likely to report binge drinking or drug use and more likely to know a friend who had abused his partner. 40% of the sample had witnessed an incident of relationship violence between GBQ men, and two-thirds intervened in the violence in some way. The findings of this study underscore the need to engage GBQ men in discussions about respectful relationships, address the role of alcohol and drugs in GBQ socialization and relationships, and provide bystander skills for men to intervene in situations of aggression or violence between men in relationships.

“You’re Gay, It’s Just What Happens”: Sexual Minority Men Recounting Experiences of Unwanted Sex in the Era of MeToo

“…There has been growing scholarly interest in the topics of unwanted sex and sexual violence among gay, bisexual, queer, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) (Felix et al, 2021;De La Ossa, 2016;McKie et al, 2020;Salter et al, 2020;Sternin et al, 2021). Approximately 30%-47% of GBM report experiencing a sexual assault over their lifetime (Black et al, 2011;Chen et al, 2020;Rothman et al, 2011).…”

Sexual and gender minority men’s bystander behaviors and barriers in response to witnessing minor sexual aggression.

“…power analyses (α = .05, 1 − B = .80), with small effect sizes (V = .114−.156). However, our sample size reflects prior research with SGM participants who reported situations where they could intervene (Salter et al, 2021).…”

Bystander Intervention in Intimate Partner Violence: An Audio Vignette Study of Heterosexual, Gay, and Lesbian Dating Partners

“…Gender norms stem from gender stereotypes, such as the characterization of men as strong and tough, and women as emotional and domestic (Davies, 2002; Sorenson & Thomas, 2009). Personal acceptance or perceived acceptance of gender norms can negatively influence bystander behavior, as the bystander may not view the victim as needing or deserving help (Brown & Messman-Moore, 2010; Salter et al, 2021). For example, bystanders are generally more likely to intervene for victims who are stereotyped as being more feminine or “weaker” and needing more help (Sorenson & Thomas, 2009).…”

“…Extensive research has been conducted on gender differences in bystander behavior, and women are generally more likely to intervene as bystanders and show more concern for the victim than do men (Bennett et al, 2017; Seelau et al, 2003). Gender differences in bystander behavior may be linked to increased recognition or efficacy of warning signs, increased empathy for the victim, and/or lack of endorsement of traditional gender norms and rape myths (Davies, 2002; National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, 2016; Salter et al, 2021). These potential explanations of gender differences in bystander behavior may also apply to other individuals from sexual and gender minority groups (Hoxmeier et al, 2022).…”