Publication Date
2023
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
First Advisor
Einolf, Christopher
Degree Name
M.A. (Master of Arts)
Legacy Department
Department of Sociology
Abstract
The present thesis examines the views that police have towards cases of same-sex IPV(intimate partner violence) in a qualitative sense. An issue highlighted by poor relations and uneven rates of arrest; this study sought to look beyond the usual quantitative approach to the issue. This was analyzed through use of semi-structured interviews with both law enforcement and social service workers in domestic violence organizations. 13 interviews were conducted, 6 with law enforcement, and 7 with social service workers, asking the participants about their views and interactions with same-sex cases, police, and the LGBTQ community as a whole. The results implied a set of two different social realities between the groups, with law enforcement viewing the system as fair to all, and social service workers saying it was not doing enough for victims. Yet in this disagreement, an interesting point was found, as both sides seemingly held common views on how to improve it. From this analysis, I suggest another layer exists in the issue, with the detachment police have from those involved in these cases leading to these negative interactions. This reality that law enforcement is in may in turn be leading to the poor interactions described by those in social work, rather than any true animosity towards the community. It is from this analysis that I suggest a continued focus on this disconnect and call for more community-oriented approaches as a step to mend the relationship between law enforcement and the LGBTQ community.
Recommended Citation
Mutchler, Lena Fae, "Police Response To Same-Sex IPV a Qualitative approach" (2023). Graduate Research Theses & Dissertations. 7339.
https://huskiecommons.lib.niu.edu/allgraduate-thesesdissertations/7339
Extent
57 pages
Language
eng
Publisher
Northern Illinois University
Rights Statement
In Copyright
Rights Statement 2
NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.
Media Type
Text
