ABSTRACT
The historical and political climate in the United States has made researchers reluctant to study effective treatment methods for same-sex couples, and research funding in the area has been relatively scarce (Spitalnick & McNair, 2005). As a result, current therapeutic techniques have been developed for heterosexual couples and then applied to lesbian (or gay) couples. Certainly, same sex couples struggle with many of the same issues as heterosexual couples and therefore, treatment is similar for both types of couples (Decker, 1984; Martell & Prince, 2005; van Wormer, Wells, & Boes, 2000). In fact, Decker (1984) noted that “many of the relationship problems can be traced to the same developmental issues and family scripts that cause problems for heterosexual couples” (p. 40). However, there are differences, so although lesbian couples may face similar challenges to heterosexual couples seeking treatment, there are key variables that distinguish lesbian relationships: (1) both partners are women and have been socialized as such; (2) the relationship is stigmatized and not afforded legitimacy by our social institutions; and (3) a healthy lesbian relationship requires that each partner accepts her stigmatized identity (Roth, 1989). Therefore, social work practice with lesbian couples builds on standard couples practice but considers the political, social, and legal factors that may be involved in the presenting problem (Spitalnick & McNair, 2005).
