What is the research saying?
2SLGBTQIA+ survivors of intimate partner violence face additional barriers to both seeking and receiving appropriate help and care due to a limited understanding of the problem, the stigma surrounding members of the community and systemic inequalities.
Seeking Lived Experiences in Research
The following study by Turner & Hammersjo explores the lived experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ intimate partner violence survivors who are seeking social supports. Seven participants were interviewed in this study between the ages of 18-56.
“One can say it was my first real relationship, which meant that I didn’t have any knowledge of whether I could turn to someone and… how I would solve this.” – Participant in Study
What are the findings?
All participants described doubts and worries relating to seeking support, which included:
- Lack of direction of where or who to turn to
- Fear of not being believed or taken seriously
- Doubt about whether their experiences were considered real violence, or if the violence was severe enough to be able to seek supports
