Stalking Behaviors within Couples of Lesbian and Bisexual Women

IntroductionThere has been limited research on stalking behaviors in same-gender intimate relationships. Research has suggested that early abusive experiences represent relevant risk factors that may have a correlation with experiences of violence in intimate partner relationships.MethodsIn this cross-sectional research, in 2016, lesbian and bisexual (LB) Italian women (N = 243) filled in a self-report questionnaire including ad hoc measures of childhood abuse and stalking behaviors.ResultsResults indicated that LB women reporting higher levels of childhood abuse also reported higher rates of stalking behaviors in their adult same-gender relationships. Coming out as lesbian or bisexual individuals was not a factor related to rates of stalking.ConclusionsThis study confirms the prediction that childhood traumatic experiences represent risk factors that may be related to LB women's experiences of stalking in same-gender intimate relationships.Policy ImplicationsThese results highlight the importance of spreading more knowledge of what is correct and incorrect to expect in an intimate relationship between women.

Automated summary

This study finds that childhood abusive experiences may increase the risk of stalking behaviors in same-gender intimate relationships for lesbian and bisexual women. There is a need for greater awareness of correct and incorrect expectations in women's intimate relationships.