From sexual stereotypes and prejudice to intimate partner violence: New theoretical and research perspectives

Over the past decades, LGBTQ+ issues have been at the center of politics, social movements, and human rights discussions and the site of major transformation across the world. Despite several countries having made steps forward in promoting inclusive policies to guarantee civil rights for LGBTQ+, a recent survey conducted by the European Committee (2020) showed that sexual orientation discrimination continues to be the third most prevalent form of discrimination around European countries, with only half of respondents saying they feel comfortable with the public affection shown by same-sex couples. Building on these premises, in the present chapter we examine genderbased stereotypes as precursors of social stigma against gays and lesbians, as well as the various current forms of prejudice against samesex couples, with a focus on homophobia. Finally, we will report recent evidence regarding the phenomenon of intimate partner violence within same-sex couples.