Problems and Conflict Resolution Strategies in Same-Sex Relationship

Gender Studies

1. AGAINST ALL ODDS: ON THE CHALLENGES CRITICAL IN THE MILESTONE TOWARDS RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION OF SAME-SEX COUPLES OF MARITAL-LIKE RELATIONSHIPS EDSON LACABE-VICENTE, LPT, MAT-SS Sisters of Mary of Banneux , Inc., Silang, Cavite, Philippines Philippine Christian University-Dasmarinas, College of Law INTRODUCTION The lack of institutionalization of same-sex relationships together with dominating heteronormative culture, and social, political, legal, psychological, and cultural restrictions on marriage can deter the quality and stability of same-sex relationships. (Medina, 2015; Rudman & Glick, 2008, Peplau & Fingerhut, 2007; Gates, 2015; Juderial et al., 2015; Abas et al., n.d , Mohr & Daly, 2008; Otis et al., 2006). Needless to say, lack of legal recognition, discrimination, and social stigma against same-sex relationships are the roots of conflicts that same-sex couples experience. The way couples resolve conflicts can be crucial in preventing the deterioration of relationship satisfaction ( Renanita & Setiawan, 2018). Most of the studies that were done to analyze conflicts and conflict resolution in same-sex relationships were mainly focused on the experiences of participants from countries where same-sex marriage and civil union are legal. To fill the gap, the results of this present study aimed to explore the problems that same-sex couples in marital-like relationships experienced and how these problems shape their relationship satisfaction. In addition, the researcher attempted to describe the conflict resolution styles applied by same-sex couples in marital-like relationships. A qualitative case-study approach was used to analyze the lived experiences of eight same-sex couples in marital-like relationships. A semi-structured in-depth interview protocol was developed to explore the experiences of the selected Filipino same-sex couples in marital-like relationships, guided by the literature on both the experiences of same-sex couples in legally recognized relationships and the experiences of cohabiting Filipino same-sex couples. The data from the transcripts were analyzed by reducing the information to significant statements and combining the statements into themes (Creswell, 2007). Despite internal and external stressors due to several issues related to their identity and relationship, same-sex couples in marital-like relationships could endure their affinity. Maintaining relationship satisfaction amid criticism and discrimination may be difficult for these couples. However, the portrayal of genuine affection, support, and trust can cause satisfaction, happiness, and an optimistic view of their lives as individuals and partners. Hence, the effects of conflicts or issues in their marital-like relationship may be overshadowed. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION METHODOLOGY CONCLUSION Medina, B. T. G. (2015). The Filipino family (3rd ed.) Diliman, Quezon City: The University of the Philippines Press. Rudman, L. A., & Glick, P. (2008). The social psychology and gender: How power and intimacy shape gender relations. New York, NY: The Guilford Press. Peplau, L. A., & Fingerhut, A. W. (2007). The close relationship of lesbian and gay men. Annual Review of Psychology , 58: 405-424. doi . 10.11461annurec.psych58.110405.085701. Gates, G. J. (2015). Marriage and family: LGBT individuals and same-sex couples. Journal of Marriage and Family , 25 (2): 67-87. https://doi.org/10.1353/foc.2015.0013 Juderial , K. J., Cheng, A. J., Racuya , J. M., & Viray , K. M. (2015). Maria, hanggang saan ang pagkababae mo ? The phenomenology of women in a homosexual relationship (Unpublished Article). Palawan State University. Abbas, B. L., Palatino, M., Sandrino , J., & Baaco , V. K. ( nd ). Pagkabarako : Sikolohiya ng mga lalaking nakikiparelasyon sa beki (Unpublished Journal). Palawan State University. Mohr, J. J., & Daly, C. A. (2008). Social minority stress and changes in relationships quality in same-sex couples. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships , 20 (6): 989-1007. doi . 10.1177/0265407508100311. REFERENCES Disownment from the family of origin, financial stress, becoming parents, and issues of jealousy and infidelity are characterized as critical problems in their relationship; Although male and female couples reported shared common issues, it was suggested that male couples were more susceptible to sexual infidelity due to poor sexual satisfaction. These challenges in the relationship of the participants were not mere crises, but also factors that propel couples towards the satisfaction of their relationships. Same-sex couples show less belligerence and anger in handling issues in their relationship and express more positive affect and humor in resolving these issues.