A Multi‐Level Meta‐Analysis Comparing Relationship Norm Strength of LGB and Heterosexual Relationships

LGB people have historical and contemporary experiences of discrimination, stigma, and violence. Research on social groups suggests that norms, rules, and expectations for group conduct emerge to provide responses to group threats, for example, oppression of LGB individuals, and arise from cultural expectations and agreements between partners. While previous research demonstrated that norm content , specific rules, and expectations in relationships established by LGB people differ from their heterosexual counterparts, it is unclear if norm strength (i.e., when norms are clearly articulated, shared, binding) and its role for relationship satisfaction vary across sexual orientations. Using multilevel meta‐analysis, we synthesized effects from four independent samples (total N = 1171) containing data on sexual orientation, relationship norm strength, and satisfaction. We tested whether (a) norm strength and (b) its association with satisfaction were dependent on sexual orientation and/or particular forms of norm strength. Contrary to expectations, we found no differences in norm strength across sexual identities or forms of norm strength. Our findings suggest similar degrees of norm strength govern LGB relationships. Limitations include cross‐sectional MTurk samples and mono‐informant data that prevent examination of dyadic processes. Future research should distinguish which normative mechanisms (e.g., the content of/conformity to norms) are responsible for shaping relationships.