Exploring the nature of same-sex relationships.
This study explored the relationship structure and experiences of 145 people in the United States, aged 50 and above, in long-term, same-sex relationships. A survey assessed relationship satisfaction and roles, caregiving, shared assets, and relationship protection and support. The ENRICH couple scales revealed high scores in communication, conflict resolution, and couple satisfaction. Most participants had taken steps to protect shared assets and assign legal authority to their partners. Participants expressed differing views regarding marriage. This study reveals distinctions based on gender and age that will inform practice with this population.
College of Education & Human Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA. jquam@umn.edu
Jean K
JK
Quam
Gary S
GS
Whitford
Lake E
LE
Dziengel
Kelly Abel
KA
Knochel
D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003142:Communication; D005260:Female; D006716:Homosexuality / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008393:Marriage / Q000523:psychology; D008875:Middle Aged; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D012737:Sex Factors; D012944:Social Support; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors