Gay and Bisexual Male Domestic Violence Victimization: Challenges to Feminist Theory and Responses to Violence

• Published in: Violence and victims 1994-01, Vol.9 (2), p.95-106
• Main Author: Letellier, Patrick
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome - psychology; AIDS/HIV; Attitude; Behavioral Sciences; Bisexuality; Bisexuality - psychology; Civil Rights; Counseling; Domestic violence; Domestic Violence - psychology; Family Violence; Feminism; Gays & lesbians; Homosexual Relationships; Homosexuality; Homosexuality, Male - psychology; Humans; Male; Marriage and Family Counselling; Men; Men - psychology; Policy, Social Justice, and Human Rights; Psychology; Social and Personality Psychology; Social Work; Theoretical Problems; Violence; Women; Women's Rights
• ISSN: 0886-6708; 1945-7073
• DOI: 10.1891/0886-6708.9.2.95

This article demonstrates how same-sex male battering challenges contemporary feminist domestic violence theory. The author shows current theory to be heterosexist and therefore insufficient to explain the phenomenon of battering among gay/bisexual men. Domestic violence theories that integrate a sociopolitical and a psychological analysis of battering are presented as more inclusive of same-sex domestic violence. Differences between battered gay/bisexual men and battered women are illustrated, focusing on how these men conceptualize and respond to violence against them. The author also examines the social context of homophobia in which same-sex battering occurs; the impact of AIDS on gay/bisexual men as it pertains to battering; the misconception of "mutual combat"; and the difficulty of seeking help. The article highlights the need for empirical research on same-sex male battering.