A mixed methods investigation of sexual victimisation and coping among sexual minority compared to heterosexual women

Sexual victimisation (SV) is pervasive in our society and is associated with a variety of negative outcomes. Sexual minority women (SMW)–particularly bisexuals–report higher rates of SV compared to heterosexual women, yet little is known about SMW’s post-SV outcomes. The present study sought to fill this gap using a mixed methods approach. A community sample of 246 women (88 lesbians, 84 bisexuals, 74 heterosexuals) completed questionnaires and interviews about SV and subsequent disclosure and coping patterns. SMW reported higher rates of childhood sexual abuse, but SV rates in adulthood were similar to heterosexuals. Qualitative interviews revealed insights into women’s SV incidents and the recovery process. Almost all the incidents involved male perpetrators. Of those who disclosed the assault (80%), most told friends (84%), romantic partners (30%), family members (31%), and/or therapists (30%). The most common reasons for non-disclosure were shame or minimising the seriousness of the incident. Four broad categories of coping behaviours emerged: avoidance, self-blame and disclosure decisions, awakening, and reaching out. Notably, few sexual identity differences in SV incidents or the recovery process were found. Understanding the impact of SV is critical to inform culturally competent clinical care that address the needs of diverse women.