Influence of heteronormativity on gendered violence in queer and lesbian relationships
Written by Venla Törmä
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day. In the light of this, this blog post explores gender-based violence in queer and lesbian relationships and how heteronormative cultural norms affect it’s prevention or visibility.
In recent times, discussions around gendered violence have expanded beyond traditional binary frameworks. The term, once primarily associated with violence against women, now encompasses a broader understanding that violence can occur in relationships of any gender composition. Gendered violence, at its core, refers to any harmful act directed at an individual or group based on their gender. Rooted in societal norms, power imbalances, and gender role expectations, it takes various forms that extend beyond the boundaries of heterosexual relationships.
While gendered violence is a pervasive issue, it's essential to recognize its nuanced manifestations within different communities. This includes same-sex relationships, where the dynamics may differ but the impact is just as profound. Violence in queer or lesbian relationships can encompass physical, emotional, or psychological abuse, challenging common misconceptions that such relationships are immune to gendered violence. This underreporting is fueled by fear of discrimination, stigma, and the misconception that violence doesn't occur within same-sex partnerships.
The Impact of Heteronormative Cultural Norms:
1. Invisibility and Denial:
Heteronormative cultural norms may contribute to the invisibility of queer relationships, reinforcing the false idea that domestic violence only occurs in heterosexual relationships. This invisibility can lead to denial or downplaying of the issue within queer communities.
2. Stereotypes and Misconceptions:
Heteronormative stereotypes about gender roles and relationship dynamics can be internalized by individuals in queer relationships. This might lead to the replication of traditional power imbalances, potentially contributing to unhealthy relationship dynamics.
3. Lack of Legal Protections:
Legal frameworks often developed with heterosexual relationships in mind may not provide adequate protection for individuals in queer relationships. This can leave survivors of domestic violence in these relationships with fewer legal resources and remedies.
4. Isolation and Lack of Support:
Heteronormative cultural norms may result in the isolation of individuals in queer relationships, particularly if they fear discrimination or lack supportive social networks. This isolation can exacerbate the impact of domestic violence, as survivors may be hesitant to seek help due to perceived stigma.
5. Internalized Homophobia:
Individuals in queer relationships may internalize societal homophobia, leading to shame and self-blame. This internalized homophobia can be a barrier to seeking help or disclosing experiences of domestic violence.
6. Lack of Inclusive Resources:
Support services and resources for domestic violence may not be fully inclusive or sensitive to the unique needs of individuals in queer relationships. There are specific types of aggressions that occur in queer and lesbian relationships, such as ‘outing’ - an abusive act of threatening to reveal the identity of a partner to those they are not comfortable sharing their identity to. This lack of inclusivity can create barriers to accessing appropriate assistance and support.
7. Intersectional Challenges:
The intersectionality of identities, including race, ethnicity, gender identity, and socio-economic status, can compound the impact of heteronormative cultural norms on individuals in queer relationships. The intersection of multiple marginalized identities can create unique challenges in addressing and escaping domestic violence.
Breaking the silence surrounding gendered violence and fostering inclusivity, especially within queer or lesbian relationships, are critical steps toward creating a world free from such violence. By addressing these specific aspects, we contribute to a future where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, can live free from the threat of violence based on their gender. Focusing on queer or lesbian gendered violence is a critical step in this journey, dismantling stereotypes, and ensuring that the unique challenges faced by these communities are acknowledged and addressed.
Refererences
Bograd, M. (1999). "Strengthening Domestic Violence Theories: Intersections of Race, Class, Sexual Orientation, and Gender. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 25(3), 275–289."
Donovan, C., & Hester, M. (2014). "Comparing Domestic Abuse in Same Sex and Heterosexual Relationships. Sociology, 48(1), 139–155."
Letellier, P. (1994). "Gay and Bisexual Male Domestic Violence Victimizations: Challenges to Feminist Theory and Responses to Violence. Violence and Victims, 9(2), 95–106."
Renzetti, C. M. (1992). "Violent Betrayal: Partner Abuse in Lesbian Relationships. Sage Publications."Top of Form
