California defines domestic violence as physical, emotional or financial abuse, which is used to exert power or control over a family member (one’s child, parent, grandparent and/or grandchild) or an intimate partner. GLBT intimate partners have children together, live together, are civilly united, are dating or formerly shared one of these relationships. There are many characteristics that are associated with domestic violence, perhaps the most defining being the power imbalance that exists between a victim and his or her abuser.

Power is what usually motivates domestic violence. Although single acts of domestic abuse are often committed based on feelings of frustration, stress or anger, abuse that repeats itself is usually due to one’s desire to exert power over his or her intimate partner or other family member. Regardless of the type of domestic abuse that an individual inflicts, the power imbalance between the abuser and his or her victim remains the same and, until and unless the victim either flees the relationship or learns to empower him or herself, that imbalance will remain constant.

Family relationships that value equality generally foster safe and nurturing environments for their members. However, domestic violence statistics reveal that in a family where the power and control are out of balance, there will be a higher risk of domestic abuse within that family, regardless of whether the family is “traditional” or lead by same sex parents. Parents, in a family situation or perhaps the “bread-winner” in an intimate partner relationship may in fact have control over other family members or an intimate partner, as the others may be dependant for food, shelter, basic necessities and affection. Whether or not the parents or partner choose to exercise that power affects whether abuse will likely surface. It should be noted that when a parent or grandparent inflicts abuse on his or her own child or grandchild, a separate charge of child abuse would likely be filed.

The “power imbalance” is the reason why so many individuals remain in abusive relationships. Researchers and psychologists believe that an individual who has been consistently and/or severely victimized may suffer from a recognized psychological condition known as battered person’s syndrome. Battered person’s syndrome, also known as battered women’s syndrome or BWS explains why abused individuals (regardless of gender or sexual orientation) voluntarily remain with their intimate partners. On a similar note, domestic violence studies suggest that strong, emotional bonds form between the victim and his or her abusive partner due to the imbalance of power that exists. As the abuser gains more power, the victim’s self-esteem lessens and he or she becomes even more dependent on the abuser, feeling that he or she is unworthy of another’s love. In addition, during the “honeymoon phase” of the cycle of abuse, the abused partner believes that the abuse has stopped and forgives the abuser, which actually reinforces the abusive behavior and strengthens the bonds even more.

Help is available to those who wish to seek it. Resources are available to both victims of intimate partner violence and to those who need help combating their abusive behavior. The trusted, LGBT supportive attorneys at the Kavinoky Law Firm can address any questions or concerns about a DV related matter. They specialize in California same sex domestic violence cases and can advise a victim of intimate partner abuse on how file for a protective order and can also refer such an individual to some of the above mentioned resources that will be sensitive to the unique needs and issues that non-heterosexual couples many face. The firm is also available to provide their exceptional legal advice and services to an individual who has been charged with a D.V. crime, treating him or her with the utmost compassion and respect along the way. With law offices in Los Angeles and throughout California, they are conveniently located for anyone in need of a gay-friendly California domestic violence lawyer. Contact them today for a free consultation and for unsurpassed representation.