Sexpectations: Coercive Control Experiences in Sexual Minorities

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that sexual minorities (gay, lesbian, or bisexual) experience disproportionate rates of sexual violence relative to their heterosexual counterparts. While sexual violence is a broad construct, recent studies have focused on the use of coercive tactics to obtain sex and whether these tactics influence perceptions of consent. Limited research exists that has assessed sexual coercion in the context of sexual minorities, and how perceptions may differ as a function of a victim’s sexual orientation. The present study uses a 2-part design to evaluate relationships between sexual minorities and sexual coercion. Part 1 will address experiences of sexual coercion across various sexual identities in relation to both victimization and perpetration. Part 2 will examine whether sexual orientation influences perceptions of sexual coercion and consent. Participants will be presented with vignettes that vary according to sexual orientation (heterosexual/gay/lesbian/bisexual), level of sexual coercion (low/high), and relationship context (stranger, acquaintance, dating, established relationship). Participants will provide ratings of levels of coercive control, sexual consent, and the degree to which victims are viewed as ‘responsible’ for their experience. In general, we predict that sexual minorities will report more instances of perpetration and victimization in relation to coercive control. Further, we predict that coercive experiences within sexual minority orientations will be minimized and more victim blaming will occur. This study has implications for how the experiences of sexual minorities are interpreted and evaluates whether minority sexuality presents further barriers to reporting sexual violence.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kristine Peace