LGBT Domestic Violence Fact Sheet

January 2005 | Center for American Progress

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“"Research indicates that domestic violence among same-sex couples occurs at similar rates as domestic violence among straight couples. Unfortunately, domestic violence victims in same-sex relationships are not receiving the help they need. This is due to the lack of legal recognition of same-sex relationships, law enforcement’s failure to identity and properly handle domestic violence cases involving people of the same sex, and the shortage of resources available to victims of same-sex partner domestic abuse."”

This is a short introduction to domestic violence among same-sex couples.  It addresses how often it happens, the differences between heterosexual and same-sex domestic violence, challenges unique to same-sex couples, and possible policy solutions.