Nationally representative studies confirm that LGBTQ individuals are at an elevated risk of experiencing intimate partner violence. While many similarities exist between LGBTQ and heterosexual-cisgender intimate partner violence, research has illuminated a variety of unique aspects of LGBTQ intimate partner violence regarding the predictors of perpetration, the specific forms of abuse experienced, barriers to help-seeking for victims, and policy and intervention needs. This is the first book that systematically reviews the literature regarding LGBTQ intimate partner violence, draws key lessons for current practice and policy, and recommends research areas and enhanced methodologies.

About the Author

Adam M. Messinger is Associate Professor of Justice Studies and Women's & Gender Studies at Northeastern Illinois University.

List of Illustrations
Preface
Acknowledgments

1. Introduction: Making the Invisible Visible
2. How Do We Know What We Know?
3. What Is LGBTQ Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)?
4. Why Does LGBTQ IPV Happen?
5. How Can We Improve Nongovernmental Responses?
6. How Can We Improve Government Responses?
7. Conclusions: Where Do We Go from Here?

Appendix: Book Methodology
Notes
Bibliography
Index

Reviews

"Messinger provides a meticulous examination of the challenges for studying LGBTQ IPV and offers keen recommendations for policy makers, practitioners, and researchers. A must-read for those interested in social work, counseling, and intimate relationships, as well as anyone working with LGBTQ populations."
— CHOICE

"An insightful and detailed discussion of the institutional and legal obstacles to the integration of LGBTQ individuals into U.S. society, and how that impacts LGBTQ intimate partner abuse."
— PsycCRITIQUES

"The author brings to light an often-overlooked problem and offers practical suggestions for increasing protections and improving service provision for LGBTQ people who are victimized by intimate partners... compelling."
— American Society of Criminology, Division on Women and Crime

“Adam M. Messinger reminds us that although much has changed since the 1980s and '90s—and for the better—a great deal unfortunately remains unchanged. But he shows us the way forward by highlighting the knowledge gaps and suggesting practical solutions for making 'the invisible visible.' This comprehensive review of research on LGBTQ intimate partner violence will prove invaluable to researchers, practitioners, policymakers, advocates, and survivors.”—Claire M. Renzetti, Judi Conway Patton Endowed Chair for Studies of Violence against Women, and Professor and Chair of Sociology, University of Kentucky

“This is the definitive book on domestic violence in LGBTQ communities and is destined to be a classic. It is essential reading for academics, practitioners, policymakers, and activists. In fact, everybody who works in this field should have this book because it is such a useful resource and will speak to you on many levels.”—Walter S. DeKeseredy, Anna Deane Carlson Endowed Chair of Social Sciences, Director of the Research Center on Violence, and Professor of Sociology, West Virginia University

About the Book

About the Author

Table of Contents

Reviews