Gay is the Way

The original reason I started this blog was because I am fascinated about the intricacies of human relations based on differences in gender, as well as how those gender differences are manifested within both heterosexual and homosexual relationships.  I happened to find this interesting blog that was published by the New York Times last year.  I pasted some excerpts of that below.

I was taken by the reported findings that homosexual couples tend to be happier in the areas that were studied than heterosexual couples.  It seems that perhaps the balance that has been struck between the homosexuals in their relationship may at least contribute to happiness for both.  It's interesting, because apparently heterosexual couples are more likely to abide by the stereotypical division of domestic responsibilities, whereas the homosexual couples were not.  I suppose this would be an expected result.  If you have two men in a relationship, both men would probably have been raised to believe they should follow the male stereotype in the division.  With no woman to assume the traditionally female role, what would they do?  They would either have to have one of the men take on that role, or have both of the men share that role.  I thought perhaps it was the former, but it seems that at least some studies are indicating that it is instead the latter.  And it seems that heterosexual couples could learn a thing or two about homosexual ones.  It's the sharing, it's the balance of power as it were, it's the cooperation that probably leads to the happiness, and presumably also a to a healthier, more balanced and fair life for those in the relationship.





http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/07/01/gay-marriage-same-but-different/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=0

Gay Marriage: Same, but Different

By TARA PARKER-POPE

 JULY 1, 2013 5:29 PM

...

Gay relationships tend to be more egalitarian, in part because same-sex couples don’t divide work along traditional gender lines. Gay couples also report less conflict and more happiness in their relationships. And because gay couples often lack the support of family members, they tend to receive social support from an extended network of friends.

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One of the most notable findings was that by nearly every measure, same-sex couples reported higher levels of happiness in their relationships than straight couples. Gay couples reported far less conflict than heterosexual couples and higher levels of intimacy. Gay couples were more likely to feel that they could confide in their partners, experience high levels of affection and be happier with their sex lives.

One reason same-sex couples may report more satisfaction and less conflict is that their relationships tend to be less defined by traditional roles. Men, gay or straight, often find it easier to communicate and share perspective with other men. Women typically find communication easier with other women.

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