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Here's a QUICK thread of my thesis research on intimate partner violence (IPV) in lesbian, bisexual, trans & queer (LBTQ) relationships in Jamaica for the #OUVirtualExpo #OUVirtualExpoLibraryAward http://bit.ly/2XnDHK8
@BobcatsDiscover @AldenLibrary
@BobcatsDiscover @AldenLibrary
IPV is oft seen as a 'heterosexual problem' but research shows it's quite prevalent in the LGBTQ community. Most of the research is US-centric so I focused on Jamaica& my LBTQ people. I examined how LBTQ people in JA perceive IPV & the barriers that they face when they seek help
I interviewed 13 LBTQ people living in Jamaica & together we uncovered 3 main factors that influence IPV perpetration in LBTQ relationships in Jamaica:
Discrimination toward LBTQ people in JA increases the likelihood of them being dependent on partners & staying in abusive relationships. It can also cause high levels of stress &internalised homophobia which may lead to IPV perpetration. It’s also a major barrier to help-seeking
Something interesting RE dependence: AJ and others shared that sometimes LBTQ people stay with an abusive partner because leaving would leave the person homeless and/or without money. This isn’t something that I noted in the research I did before starting.
Factor 2:Heteronormativity can lead to the performance of traditional gender roles in LBTQ relationships. This can cause IPV as ppl who take on 'masculine’ roles may use violence as a means of control. As some partners see this as a norm, it also acts a barrier to help-seeking
Interestingly enough, a couple participants shared that in some trans relationships, IPV is ‘encouraged’ as for some trans women, experiencing IPV is a means of validating their femininity.
The final factor explores the fact that LBTQ people are > likely to experience mental illness but < likely to use mental health services. Mental illness is a causal factor for IPV perpetration. Negative experiences w/ mental health services also acts as a barrier to help-seeking.
Out of the findings, I came up w/ several recommendations including: mixed methods research on IPV, support for LGBTQ people through non-traditional healing, low cost mental health & safe spaces, awareness campaigns & diversity & sensitivity training for service providers
This is a true snippet, if you want more: https://bit.ly/2XnDHK8
I’ll be sure to post the link when my thesis is published! #OUVirtualExpo @WEChangeJA @transwaveJA @EqualityJa @EqualityYouthJA @EC_Equality @holeiswhole @AstraeaUpdates
I’ll be sure to post the link when my thesis is published! #OUVirtualExpo @WEChangeJA @transwaveJA @EqualityJa @EqualityYouthJA @EC_Equality @holeiswhole @AstraeaUpdates
