Understanding the relationship practices of abusive partners in same sex and/or trans relationships and their implications for theory and practice.

• Start date: 07 October 2012
• End date: 06 October 2014

Building on the growing literature about same-sex and trans domestic violence, this project uses mixed methods to collect data from people who have behaved abusively in same-sex and/or trans relationships and practitioners who work with (heterosexual) domestic violence perpetrators.

Firstly, a survey will be conducted to investigate relationship expectations, attitudes towards using abusive tactics and abusive behaviour in previous same-sex and/or trans relationships (n=200). Next, qualitative interviews will explore the understandings, values and support needs of people who have behaved abusively in previous same-sex and/or trans relationships (n=40).

Findings from these methods will be used to develop interviews and discussion in the second phase with practitioners. In-depth interviews with practitioners (n=15) will explore understandings of same-sex and trans domestic violence and reflections on the dis/continuities with their experiences of working with heterosexual male perpetrators; and six focus groups with practitioners will elicit their views on how the findings could inform the development of suitable interventions.

Additionally, this research will:

• contribute a knowledge base about abusive partners in same-sex and trans relationships
• recommendations for relevant practitioners
• the development of a methodology for the complex and sensitive task of researching perpetrators of domestic violence in same-sex and trans relationships.