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Articles

Vol. 12 No. i (2024): Spring 2024

The Impact of Societal Stigma on Same-Sex Marriages and Relationships and How We Can Work to Promote Resilience

Submitted
July 18, 2024
Published
2024-08-18

Abstract

Although progress has been made for same-sex relationships in terms of societal acceptance and the recognition of same-sex marriages, same-sex couples continue to experience societal stigma for being a sexual minority.  As a result of stigmatization, same-sex marriages and relationships may be at particular risk for negative relational and psychological outcomes. Despite a variety of research examining how same-sex marriages and relationships are negatively impacted by societal stigma and discrimination, more research must be conducted to understand how same-sex couples can work to strengthen resilience within their relationships. The present literature review synthesizes available research on building resilience in same-sex relationships through social support and the development of communication skills. The present review also summarizes evidence-based strategies that might improve positive relational outcomes for same-sex marriages and relationships.