International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research

Authors
Maria Eva Ofwona

Abstract
The body of research into violence in relationships has grown substantially over the years. However, until relatively recently, much of research focused primarily on the violence perpetrated within heterosexual relationships, with men viewed largely as perpetrators and women as victims. Research into violence and abuse within same-sex relationships is therefore relatively new and, in terms of depth, relatively understudied. The study investigated experiences of intimate partner relationships with a focus on intimate partner violence (IPV) in Ainabkoi Sub-County of Uasin Gishu County in Kenya. Based on the study, this paper explores the types of violence experienced by individuals in same-sex relationships. The study was cross-sectional exploratory by design, and it utilized qualitative methods of data collection. The target population comprised all individuals in same-sex relationships in Uasin Gishi County. Snowballing technique was employed in selecting a sample size of 30 individuals in the same-sex relationships. The inclusion criterion was any person who had experienced IPV. In-depth interviews and case narratives were the main tools of data collection. Qualitative data was transcribed, coded and then thematically analysed in line with the objectives of the study. From the research findings, emotional, physical, psychological and sexual assault were the main violence types identified in the study that are experienced by individuals in intimate partner relationships. It is recommended that law enforcement personnel (police) should be given adequate training by the state to better understand the historical mistreatment of gay and lesbian individuals to encourage empathizing with the population.