Recurring Victimization and Same-Sex Attraction

People who identify as same-sex attracted (SSA) face significantly greater risk for victimization than their non-SSA counterparts. However, little distinction is made between single versus recurring victimization among the SSA population. There are no national prevalence estimates, and we do not know the extent to which disproportionate risk of victimization among SSA populations applies to recurring victimization versus single occurrences.

We analyze data from 483 survey respondents who reported same-sex attraction and 8544 respondents who do not report SSA.

The current study utilizes a nationally representative sample to estimate the prevalence of single and recurring victimization among SSA populations, and compare these estimates with those found in the non-SSA population. We further investigate some possible mediating processes that may explain differences between these groups in risk for recurring victimization, drawing upon lifestyles, self-control, and minority stress frameworks. Findings indicate that SSA groups have significantly greater risk for both single and recurring physical assault victimization. Much of the disproportionate recurring victimization risk can be explained by differences in both risky lifestyles and low self-control, as well as minority stress.

Recurring victimization is an important problem for SSA individuals. Prevention efforts may focus on school contexts, including the addition of Gay-Straight alliances, creating supporting peer groups, and providing supportive adult role models.