LGBTQ Relationships

This chapter provides an overview of research regarding the familial and romantic relationships of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals. The topic of families of origin, describing the coming out process for LGBTQ individuals and its ramifications for individual outcomes, as well as for relationships with immediate and extended family members are covered. What is known about same-sex couple relationship dynamics, both in comparison to other-sex couples and in ways that uniquely characterize LGBTQ couple relationships, are highlighted. Finally, the literature about LGBTQ parent families, including child and parent outcomes and family processes unique to these family systems, are discussed. Throughout the chapter, areas for future LGBTQ relationship research, particularly the inclusion of underrepresented samples within the LGBTQ population, are emphasized.