By: Abby M. Haak
Since 1990, many new studies have been done on the relationships of same-sex couples and their families. These studies usually assume that all LGB families are alike in their experiences and needs. These studies also assume that LGB families follow heteronormative family guidelines. Heteronormativity is the assumption that heterosexuality is the norm and that all individuals are straight. Here's a great song about heteronormativity: Heteronormativity Rap.
The problem with putting LGB families in a heteronormative framework is that it makes any non-heteronormative experiences invisible! It is almost as though the only difference between LGB families and straight families is that some are with people of the same gender and some are not, when in fact LGB families face different obstacles in their relationships/families than heterosexual families experience (examples: legal restraints, social stigmas).
The article "Same-Sex Relationships and Dissolution: The Connection Between Heteronormativity and Homonormativity", Van Eeden-Moorefield, Martell, Williams, and Preston attempt to show how same-sex relationships are diverse, especially in regards to their endings (dissolutions). They begin the paper by looking at the prevalence of same-sex couples in the United States and the rate at which these couples go through a relationship dissolution (break-up, divorce, separation).
The authors note that because of legal differences from state to state, LGB individuals often need to go through special hoops in order to dissolve relationships. For example, look at this infograph of states that allow LGB couples to marry. If an individual gets married in Iowa but then moves to Texas and wants to get a divorce, he/she might not be able to because that would require Texas (where LGB marriage is not recognized) to say that the marriage was valid and therefore could be dissolved. Next, the authors describe some of the social challenges that LGB couples face when dissolving their relationships. For example, many LGB couples face social stigmas (negative assumptions about themselves because of their sexual identity) and these stigmas can cause stress within their relationships.
As more and more states allow same-sex couples to marry and with the repeal of DOMA, legal dissolution of marriages are inevitable (admit it-- sometimes divorce happens! Check out these divorce rates). The authors call for more research to be conducted on LGB couples and
how they deal with the end of their relationships, especially research
that does not make heteronormative assumptions about the relationships
and experiences of LGB couples.
If you want to learn more about the authors of this article, click these links!
Brad Van Eeden Moorefield
Christopher Martell
If you want to learn more about the authors of this article, click these links!
Brad Van Eeden Moorefield
Christopher Martell