ABOUT LGTBQ
Laura's House is a safe space for any victim of adolescent dating abuse. Dating abuse occurs in approximately one in three relationships regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, education, religious affiliation, political ideology, physical ability, etc. Dating abuse crosses all boundaries and does not discriminate; it does happen in same-sex relationships.
In focus groups conducted by Break the Cycle, an organization dedicated to ending domestic and dating violence, LGTBQ youth reported that dating violence is an "everyday" occurrence for the majority of their peers. Current research suggests that up to 50% of people who identify as LGTBQ will experience abuse at the hands of an intimate partner.
As is often the case, groups that experience oppression and discrimination can internalize the prejudice, mostly without realizing it. Some have a fear that there is no one who might understand.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender adolescents are faced with unique obstacles when in abusive relationships. They may not be out to their parents or friends, so they can't talk about the struggles they are having with their partner. They may feel like if they leave their partner, they will be the only LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning) person in their community. Leaving may mean total isolation.
