NCJ Number
223762
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 19 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2004 Pages: 639-654
Date Published
June 2004
Length
16 pages
Annotation
In an attempt to foster a better understanding of domestic violence in same-sex couples, this study examined the perceived prevalence, intergenerational violence, addictive behaviors and exposure to violence at childhood, and conflict resolutions skills in a sample of Puerto Rican gay male couples.
Abstract
Close to half of the young gay Puerto Rican males participating in the study reported domestic violence in their intimate relationships. The abusive behaviors most frequently identified were those associated with emotional violence. The results indicate that exposure to role models in families of origin seems to be an important element in the learning of behavior patterns. Participants who reported violence in their intimate relationships also reported violence in their childhood homes. Also found, was a lack of conflict resolution skills. In summary, the findings support the position that the factors that lead to domestic violence might be related to family models of violent behavior and the lack of personal control. Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors in the context of an intimate relationship, which can be manifested in emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. Domestic violence represents a social and a public health issue. This study is an effort to foster a better understanding of domestic violence among same-sex couples. The study consisted of 199 Puerto Rican gay males to identify the prevalence of domestic violence in the participants’ lives, identify the level of violence in families of origin, identify participants’ addictive behaviors and their exposure to this in their childhood household, and identify their conflict resolution skills. Figures, tables and references