Systemic Acceptance of Same-Sex Relationships and the Impact on Intimate Partner Violence Among Cisgender Identified Lesbian and Queer Individuals

The full impact of intimate partner violence on cisgender women identifying as queer or lesbian is unknown. Messages from various systemic groups may affect whether an individual remains in a violent relationship, seeks help, or feels understood by counseling professionals. This study examined the perspectives of acceptance from a systemic perspective in order to better understand the role of these early messages and the presence of violence in future relationships. Using an ecological theoretical perspective, counselors and helping professionals can work to overcome the current disparity in helping services for lesbian victims of intimate partner violence.