“It’s just two guys fighting”: Intimate partner violence among gay and bisexual men

Murray, Shannon 2025. “It’s just two guys fighting”: Intimate partner violence among gay and bisexual men. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

This research explores the experiences and needs of gay and bisexual (GB) men who have encountered Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in England and Wales. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the study examines three key areas: the nature of abuse experienced by GB men, the distinct characteristics of identity based abuse, and the impact of sexual identity on help-seeking behaviours. Through a multi-method approach combining qualitative surveys (n = 59), follow-up in-depth interviews (n = 8), and innovative photo elicitation sessions (n = 2), the research places participant’s lived experiences at the centre of the investigation. The findings reveal how heteronormative assumptions and hegemonic masculinity create unique barriers to recognition and support for GB male victims. Participants reported complex patterns of abuse that capitalised on internalised homophobia, masculine identity norms, and additional vulnerabilities such as age, religion, and language barriers. The study identified specific tactics used by perpetrators, including threats of 'outing' and manipulation of societal marginalisation, whilst also uncovering significant gaps in service provision and institutional responses to GB male victims. This research challenges traditional gendered narratives of IPV by demonstrating that power and control dynamics manifest similarly across different relationship contexts, whilst acknowledging the unique barriers faced by GB men. The findings contribute to both applied and theoretical understandings of IPV, particularly expanding criminological knowledge through a detailed examination of GB male experiences. This work addresses a significant gap in current literature, particularly within the context of Wales and England, where research on GB men's experiences of IPV has been notably scarce. The study has significant implications for policymakers and service providers, providing valuable insights that can inform more inclusive and practical approaches to IPV support and intervention for LGBTQ+ communities. The findings highlight the urgent need for expanded awareness, improved support services, and more nuanced policy approaches that acknowledge the diverse experiences of IPV survivors, regardless of their gender or sexual identity.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Social Sciences (Includes Criminology and Education)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	17 March 2026
Last Modified:	17 Mar 2026 16:11
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/185798

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