Thesis (MSc--Psychology)--University of Auckland, 1999 Citation only. No copy held in the Information Collection. This item is only available from University of Auckland Library

This thesis explores abusive lesbian relationships in a New Zealand context, examining in particular attitudes and beliefs related to the pervasive silence on the topic. Data was collected using a survey questionnaire and interviews from university educated women aged in their 30s and 40s, most of whom identified as lesbian. The study confirms earlier research than domestic violence is a problem in lesbian communities, with psychological abuse being particularly but not exclusively prevalent. A recurrent theme of the research was that the prejudice attached to lesbianism creates a general reluctance to acknowledge and thus address the issues involved with domestic violence in lesbian relationships. The research found that overwhelmingly participants needed more comprehensive and widespread discussion of abusive behaviours in lesbian couple relationships. This finding is compared to the heterosexual domestic violence trajectory of early awareness growing with grassroots mobilisation followed by public awareness prior to issues being dealt with on a larger scale. While friend of victims said they would enlist agency support, choices in this sphere were limited, and victims themselves reported a low level of helpfulness from agencies.

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