Intimate Partner Violence in Same-Sex Versus Heterosexual Relationships: A Comparative Analysis Across Demographic Groups

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant public health issue affecting individuals regardless of sexual orientation, yet research has traditionally focused on heterosexual relationships. This study conducted a comparative analysis of IPV rates between same-sex and heterosexual relationships through a systematic literature review of 33 empirical studies with quantitative data and validated instruments. The analysis was grounded in minority stress theory and intersectionality frameworks to understand how sexual minority status influences IPV vulnerability. Results demonstrate that IPV rates in same-sex relationships are comparable to or exceed those in heterosexual relationships. Bisexual women showed the highest prevalence (61.1%-68.8%), nearly double that of heterosexual women (35.0%-36.0%). Gay men experience IPV at rates of 26.0%-37.7%, while lesbian women encounter violence at rates of 43.8%-46.3%, both exceeding their heterosexual counterparts. Cross-cultural analysis revealed significant regional variations, with Brazilian gay men facing sexual violence rates ten times higher than heterosexual men. These findings challenge heteronormative conceptualizations of IPV and demonstrate that sexual minorities face equal or greater risk. Results underscore the need for culturally competent, targeted prevention and intervention strategies addressing specific vulnerabilities of sexual minority populations across diverse cultural contexts..