Que(e)rying Methodologies for Research on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT+) Domestic Abuse

Abstract Purpose Research about domestic abuse (DA) in the relationships of LGBT+ people is becoming more commonplace but is also dominated by particular methodological tropes that, we argue, constrain the kinds of knowledge that can be produced about this serious social problem. We critically consider the potential of much of the existing quantitative research either to reflect the diversity of identities of sexuality and gender that exist or to properly interrogate DA relationship dynamics. Methods Our feminist, intersectional understanding of DA considers relationships of power rather than individual incidents as central to making sense of DA; and recognises that ostensibly abusive behaviours can be motivated by self-defence as well as retaliation or to coercively control a partner (Johnson, 2008). Existing research relying solely on questionnaires can create categories of identities and behaviours that are reductive and provide precarious correlations between abusive behaviours and social variables. Results In response, we offer the COSHAR Project's mixed methods approach (Hester & Donovan, 2009) as a viable alternative approach. The questionnaire captures the context of, motives for and impacts of abusive behaviour; and offers participants the opportunity to provide qualitative explanations of responses. Importantly, this methodology allows an alternative approach to investigating so-called mutual abuse which is too often suggested as characterising domestic abuse in the relationships of LGBT+ people. Conclusions We make a case for a more thoughtful and nuanced approach to data collection that draws on what is known about LGBT+ relationships, DA and identities to better ensure a more relevant and useful knowledge base.