Type:	Journal Article
Title:	Nowhere to hide: lesbian battering, homophobia, and minority stress
Other Titles:	Women & therapy
Authors:	Balsam, Kimberly F
Keywords:	Mental health;Gay/lesbian/transgender
Year:	2001
Publisher:	Haworth Press
Citation:	23 (3), 2001
Notes:	Special Issue Title: "Intimate betrayal: Domestic violence in lesbian relationships" This article explores the role of homophobia in shaping lesbians’ experiences of abuse. The widespread heterosexual system has created negative attitudes towards homosexuality, even within the lesbian, gay and bisexual community. This internalised homophobia is linked to low self-esteem and depression. Additionally, minority stress, which is anxiety derived from the ascription to groups regarded as inferior, places lesbians at risk for negative events. Homophobic discourses aid in the victimisation process, victims and perpetrators justify the violence, and adequate services are inhibited. Lesbians avoid being perceived as violent to evade further discrimination, albeit their remaining in an abusive relationship. In order to effectively prevent and address intra-lesbian violence, homophobia needs to be considered as a relevant factor.
URI:	https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/15981
ISSN:	2703149
Appears in Collections:	Journal Articles

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