"We are Two of the Lucky Ones": Experiences with Marriage and Wellbeing for Same-Sex Couples

Heather R. Kennedy, Rochelle L. Dalla, Steven Dreesman
2017 Journal of Homosexuality  
Happy marriages provide protective health benefits, and social support is a key factor in this association. However, previous research indicates one of the greatest differences between same-and different-sex couples is less social support for same-sex couples. Our goal was to examine the extent to which formal markers of couple status (e.g., marriage) impact wellbeing among same-sex married partners. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 218 primarily White gay and lesbian
more » ... ividuals in the Midwest. Quantitative analysis revealed individuals in a prior formal union with a different-sex partner reported the lowest levels of sexuality specific social support and acceptance. Qualitative analysis revealed four primary impacts of marriage on support from family, friends, and co-workers: no change, increased support, decreased support, and a synthesis of mixed support. Three mechanisms prompting change in the family were iden tified and are presented.
doi:10.1080/00918369.2017.1407612 pmid:29199908 fatcat:m5iunlad65hn7k7fbnlt5kmvfi