Minority stress, substance use, and intimate partner violence among sexual minority women

Compared to the research literature on intimate partner violence (IPV) in heterosexual relationships, our understanding of IPV among sexual minority women (SMW) lags far behind. This paper reviews the literature regarding the prevalence of IPV among SMW and discusses disparities between SMW and heterosexual women. Methodological issues in this area are also discussed. Moreover, we review associations among substance use, sexual minority stress, and IPV in this population. Finally, potential protective factors, such as social and community support, identity, mastery, and coping, are examined. As researchers and clinicians work to improve the health of SMW it is important to consider the associations among relationship violence, substance use, and minority stress. Moreover, it is essential to understand what factors may promote adjustment among SMW.

► Literature on the prevalence of IPV among sexual minority women (SMW) is reviewed.
► Disparities between SMW and heterosexual women are discussed.
► Methodological issues in this area are also considered.
► We review associations among substance use, sexual minority stress, and IPV.
► Protective factors promoting adjustment SMW are also examined.