Since the 1970s, LGBTQ+ people in this country have been fighting; fighting for equal rights and dismantling the stereotype that their relationships have no intrinsic value.
The truth is that LGBTQ+ relationships are just as loving and committed as non-LGBTQ+ ones. And they can also have similar challenges to heterosexual relationships regarding finances, parenting, household chores, etc.
There are, however, certain conflicts and interests that are unique to same-sex couples.
Friendships
In heterosexual relationships, there is a clear boundary marked by sex. For instance, a woman may spend a “night out with the girls” without creating feelings of insecurity in her male partner. Similarly, a man could spend the day watching the football game with his best guy friend, and there would be no issue.
If, however, she wanted to hang out with an ex-boyfriend or he was helping a female coworker train for a marathon, there may be some tension.
This tension is commonplace for same-sex couples as most friends and exes are of the same sex.
Same-sex partners cannot expect to spend 100% of their time together. And in fact, it is healthy to spend time apart. But I always suggest to my clients that they set some definitive rules at the beginning of the relationship and have open and honest conversations so feelings don’t get hurt and both parties are heard.
Out VS Not Out
Same-sex couples have another unique issue: each partner may have a different level of comfort regarding being open about their sexuality. For instance, one partner may be completely “out of the closet” and want to show physical affection in public, while the other may not be as out or comfortable.
I help my clients communicate with one another so each party can express what they need in these situations. Every person is entitled to develop their feelings of ease in this regard in their way and own time.
Non-Inclusive Language
Many same-sex couples wish to start a family just as heterosexual couples do. But it can be stressful and frustrating when running into situations where non-inclusive language is the norm. For instance, their teacher repeatedly tells their child, “Bring this permission slip home to your mommy and daddy.” Or when a man is in the park pushing his baby in a stroller, and a well-meaning passerby says, “Aw, adorable, does he look like you or your wife?” Over time, these situations can really tear a person down.
Being in a committed couple is challenging, no matter the sex of each partner, and you are certain to run into your fair share of conflicts. How you handle them is what makes the difference between a strong, healthy relationship and one that ends in ugliness.
Please contact me if you and your partner are struggling with any issues and want to speak with someone who can help.
