Some of your readings for Discussion #2 address same sex partner violence. Although we do know from reliable research that intimate partner violence is a problem in the GLBTQ community, we still have much to learn about lesbian battering and even more so about gay male battering. Without question, this is an area of domestic violence research which deserves much more time and attention.
For the purposes of the discussion topic, please read and respond to the case study below. Unfortunately, the case is a true one.
Same Sex Partner Violence Scenario
Michael is a 22 year old gay man living in a major metropolitan city in the Southwest. He has several very close friends whom he considers family, however, his "blood" immediate family disowned him when he came "out." He has recently left his partner, Jeff, a 35 year old man. Michael confides to his best friend, Lisa, that he is afraid what his ex-partner will do. When living together Jeff was very controlling and would frequently tell Michael that he'd kill him if he every tried to leave. Michael also discloses that Jeff would sometimes get "very angry" with him and physically hurt him. Concerned, Lisa contacts the local domestic violence hotline. When speaking to an "advocate" Lisa is told that men do not get battered and maybe Michael should see a counselor about his " personal problems." Frustrated, Lisa doesn't know who else to talk to or what else to do. Michael, who is employed, begins to get harassing phone calls at work from Jeff. Michael's anxiety level rapidly escalates not only because of Jeff's harassment, but also because his employer does not know he's gay. Jeff eventually contacts Michael's supervisor and discloses his sexual orientation (outs him). When Michael's supervisor calls him into the office to discuss the phone call Michael feels forced to disclose the abuse, the harassment, and the gay relationship. The supervisor fires Michael stating that he should not be bringing his "personal problems" to work. About one month later Michael is approached by Tim, a man who knows Jeff. Tim tells Michael that Jeff approached him and offered him $5,000 to kill Michael. Tim wants no part of this but feels like Michael needs to know. Tim doesn't want to get involved, but he's afraid Michael is in danger. Not knowing what else to do Michael goes to the local law enforcement agency and shares his story and his fear. Michael is told to go about his business as usual.
Several months later, while waiting at a bus stop, Michael is approached by a stranger who points a gun at his face and fires. Michael dies at the scene.
Repond to the following questions:
1. Identify some of the barriers that Michael faced in this situation.
2. Identify what at least 1 effective system response might have looked like.
3. Do you think this example of same sex partner violence is similar to, or different from, heterosexual partner violence? Please explain
4. Support your response with in-text citations and references.