Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Abuse

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people experience domestic abuse at the same rate as heterosexual women.

Domestic violence – it’s something that can affect anyone. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people do experience domestic abuse, but the reality of LGBTQ relationship violence is rarely discussed. LGBTQ people can be reluctant to seek help from the police for fear of homophobic or transphobic treatment and may be unable to turn to family or friends for support if they are not ‘out’ about their sexuality. This can leave LGBTQ people who suffer from domestic violence especially isolated and at risk of further abuse.

About 25% of LGBTQ people suffer through violent or threatening relationships with partners or ex-partners – about the same rate as heterosexual women. Sometimes the abuse looks similar to that experienced by heterosexual people: emotional bullying, physical aggression, threats to harm the victim or other loved ones, social isolation, control of finances, extreme jealousy. There are additional features that can be present in LGBTQ intimate partner violence that does not factor into heterosexual relationships. The abuser may threaten to ‘out’ the victim to friends, family, religious communities, co-workers, and others if he or she does not comply with the abuser’s wishes. The abuser may use the close-knit dynamic of the gay and lesbian community and the lack of support for LGBTQ  people outside the community to further pressure the victim into compliance.

Valley Crisis Center understands the importance of confidentiality and safety and we would like to state that VCC will always be a safe location for all members of our community to seek services. 

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence or has been a victim in the past, we can help. Please call us at our business office at (209) 725-7900 or on our 24 Hour Crisis Hotline at (209) 722-4357.