ROLE EXPECTATIONS IN ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS OF MEN WITH DIFFERENT SEXUAL ORIENTATION

Abstract

The article considers the features of role expectations in romantic relationships of men with different sexual orientation. A comparative description of role expectations and claims of these groups is given in this article. The aim of this work is to study the features of role expectations and claims in heterosexual and homosexual couples. The study involved 80 heterosexual and 80 homosexual men Ukrainian nationality, who were interviewed about their role expectations and claims in a couple. Role expectations of men were studied by using the method of A. Volkova "Role Expectations and Claims in Marriage", which allows to determine features of role expectations and claims of partners in various spheres of family life (sexual relations, parental responsibilities, household, etc.). In addition, participants were tested by an "Incomplete sentences" method. Descriptive statistics, frequency analysis and Student's t-test were used for data processing. Obtained data indicate important similarities and differences in the perception of a partner, relationships and role expectations and claims of men of different sexual orientations. It was found that both heterosexuals and homosexuals are neutral to married life and have very positive attitude towards their partner. It was found that among both heterosexual and homosexual men dominate role expectations in the social activity and external attractiveness areas. Moreover, expectations in the external attractiveness area are significantly higher among homosexual men compared to heterosexual men. It was found that role claims of heterosexual men are identical to their role expectations. Heterosexual men do not expect more from their partners than they are willing to give in their relationship. Role claims of homosexual men demonstrate high importance of social activity, external attractiveness and emotional-psychotherapeutic role in relationships. Prospects for further research include studying of the features of role expectations and claims among men with homosexual orientation, with the further development of techniques for counseling in such couples.