Det osynliga våldet i en heteronormativ diskurs : En litteraturstudie om våld i HBTQ-relationer

Sammanfattning

Domestic violence is a serious and dangerous societal problem that can mean lifethreatening consequences for its victims. Traditionally it is a subject that has been viewed from the perspective of the heterosexual relationship. Less is known about the domestic violence affecting the LGBTQ-community. The scarce science on the subject shows that this group can be at a particularly high risk for victimization. Social workers play an important role in identifying, preventing and protecting victims of domestic violence regardless of gender and sexuality. Yet science shows that this work can be significantly limited by the heteronormative discourse where it takes place. The aim of this literature study is there by to try to fill the gaps of knowledge, providing future social workers with a better understanding of the experiences and needs of LGBTQ people experiencing domestic violence in a romantic partnership, as well as to provide tools for more inclusive social work practices. The findings of this study shows that heteronormative structures makes it harder for LGBTQ people as well as serviceproviders to identify risk and victimization of violence. The heterosexualized societal view of the problem as well as gendered beliefs about violence makes it harder for the LGBTQ community to be recognized as legitimate victims of violence. The group's minority status also poses challenges such as; isolation, fears related to help seeking and the heightened risk of discrimination. The findings of this study shows a great need for more inclusive social work; challenging the gender binary and the heterosexual views of domestic violence.