‘It’s a people problem’: the invisibility of male same-sex domestic violence and abuse in the UK

‘Same-sex abuse also happens, it’s not just a heterosexual problem – it’s a people problem’ (Survey participant 21) It is now widely acknowledged that domestic violence and abuse (DVA) occurs within same- sex relationships, at least at the same rate as heterosexual relationships. Despite this, the scholarship pertaining to male same-sex abuse remains slight in comparison to literature which has examined heterosexual DVA. This research remedies the lack of knowledge by updating the small amount of previous research that has been conducted in the UK. Using an original mixed methods approach, this thesis seeks to examine the nature of male same- sex abuse in the UK, as well as the current service response to these victims. An online survey gathered responses from men who were in, or have previously been in a relationship with another man (n103). In-depth interviews with DVA professionals were also conducted (n11) either in person or via telephone, allowing for a well-rounded analysis of male same- sex DVA. This thesis situates the experiences of male same-sex DVA within the wider sociocultural positioning of sexual minorities in the UK. Using a combination of queer and feminist perspectives, this thesis examines the impact that the context of sexual identity, heteronormativity, homophobia, and masculinity discourse has on experiences of DVA, and illustrates the invisibility of male same-sex DVA victims. Findings suggest that the nature of male same-sex DVA largely mirrors that of their heterosexual counterparts. Coercive control, physical abuse, and sexual abuse all manifest in similar ways to heterosexual DVA. When differences do arise, they are the result of sexual identity and the specific social milieu in which sexual minorities exist. By considering how male same-sex abuse compares to heterosexual abuse, this research contributes a deeper understanding of all DVA experiences. Findings also suggest that the current service response in the UK is inadequate in addressing the specific needs of male same-sex victims. A number of structural and individual barriers means the formal services that do exist are scarcely accessed, with informal help sources favoured by male same-sex victims. This research has implications for policy and practice within the UK, which can ameliorate these issues and better support male same-sex DVA victims. This thesis advocates for a person-centred approach to policy and practice, which takes into account the ways in which sexual identity, and other identity factors, impact experiences of abuse.