Sexual coercion in lesbian and gay relationships: A review and critique

Abstract

Sexual coercion, or pressure to engage in unwanted sexual behavior, has been a popular research topic for social scientists interested in heterosexual relationships. Only recently have researchers turned their attention to lesbian and gay couples. Several research studies are reviewed to assess rates, causes, and effects of sexual coercion in lesbian and gay relationships. Several methodological issues that limit usefulness of findings on homosexual sexual coercion are discussed as well as reasons why social scientists have been reluctant to investigate sexual coercion in lesbian and gay relationships.