Listening to Lesbian Couples: Communication Competence in Long-Term Relationships

Lesbian couples experience many strengths in relationship. This qualitative analysis focused on the communication competence of 10 long-term lesbian couples (dyads) together for 10 years or longer. They were interviewed jointly in two semi-structured interviews, methodologically using a combination of ethnography and phenomenology from a feminist perspective. The couples described a communication process that constructed and conveyed meaning. These dyads managed conflicts by avoiding contemptuous language and through negotiating skills. Additionally, they maintained an empathic attunement to each other by attending to nonverbals and respecting differences. This article explores these themes and provides implications for professionals working with all couples. (C) 2005 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.