Minority Stress, Substance Use, and Intimate Partner Violence Among Sexual Minority Women

• NCJ Number: 239872
• Journal: Aggression and Violent Behavior Volume: 17 Issue: 3 Dated: May/June 2012 Pages: 247-256
• Author(s): Robert J. Lewis; Robert J. Milletich; Michelle L. Kelley; Alex Woody
• Date Published: June 2012
• Length: 10 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This literature review examines the effect of substance use and intimate partner violence on sexual minority women.

Abstract

Compared to the research literature on intimate partner violence (IPV) in heterosexual relationships, the authors understanding of IPV among sexual minority women (SMW) lags far behind. This paper reviews the literature regarding the prevalence of IPV among SMW and discusses disparities between SMW and heterosexual women. Methodological issues in this area are also discussed. Moreover, the authors review associations among substance use, sexual minority stress, and IPV in this population. Finally, potential protective factors, such as social and community support, identity, mastery, and coping, are examined. As researchers and clinicians work to improve the health of SMW it is important to consider the associations among relationship violence, substance use, and minority stress. Moreover, it is essential to understand what factors may promote adjustment among SMW. (Published Abstract)