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LGBTQ Myths & Facts

Victims of interpersonal violence are the ones who suffer most from the myths surrounding it. These myths keep people from recognizing and labeling interpersonal violence even as it looms before them. Myths keep us all from taking responsibility and appropriate action to help victims and to stop the violence. Finally, these myths serve as powerful forces that may keep individuals, especially sexual minorities, from seeking help or leaving abusive relationships.

Common Myths About Abuse in LGBTQ Relationships

• Myth: Only straight women get battered.
• Fact: Intimate partner violence is about power and control. Anyone can be a victim.



• Myth: Same-sex violence is a "fight" between equals.
• Fact: Two women or two men in a relationship does not automatically guarantee equality. Relationship struggles are never equal if abuse is involved.



• Myth: The abuser will always be bigger and stronger; the victim will always be smaller and weaker.
• Fact: Size, weight, "butchness," or any other physical attribute or role are not good indicators of whether or not someone will be a victim or an abuser.



• Myth: It is easier for victims in same-sex relationships to leave their abusive partners than for victims in different-sex relationships.
• Fact: It is never easy to leave an abusive relationship. Many LGBTQ communities are small and victims may be afraid that no one will believe them or that they may lose friends if they speak out against their abuser. In addition, abusers often threaten to "out" the victim.

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