The shadow within: Internalized homophobia in gay men and same-sex domestic violence.

by Michael Nava

This dissertation explored the relationship between internalized homophobia and same-sex domestic violence. Fifteen self-identified gay adult males participated and completed a self-administered questionnaire, which involved a modified version of the Conflict Tactics Scale and the Reactions to Homosexuality Scale.;The results of the study revealed a positive correlation between social comfort scores related to minor assault and severe coercion. As social comfort increased, minor assault and severe coercion increased. Additionally, as moral/religious acceptability decreased severe assault increased. This study suggests the possibility of homophobia in gay men as a contributing factor to same-sex domestic violence. Understanding homophobia and its role in same-sex domestic violence would benefit clinical psychologists and therapists working with both victims and victimizers. With an increased level of empathy for victims of same-sex domestic violence, professionals will be moved to provide a safe and non judgmental environment to facilitate the wellness of individuals affected.

62 pages, ebook

About the author

Michael Nava is the author of a groundbreaking series of crime novels featuring a gay, Latino criminal defense lawyer Henry Rios. Nava is a six-time recipient of the Lambda Literary Award in the mystery category, as well as the Bill Whitehead Lifetime Achievement Award for gay and lesbian literature.