The Nature and Function of Fusion in the Dynamics of Lesbian Relationships

Abstract

Although much has been written about the problem of fusion in relationships, especially among lesbians, there is little evidence of its prevalence in the nonclinical lesbian community or information about the function it may serve in lesbian relationships. This study examined the frequency of fusion in lesbian and heterosexual women's relationships and the relationship of fusion to other relational variables. The study found that there were no differences between lesbian and heterosexual women's levels of fusion and that fusion was strongly related to both satisfaction and dependence.two women together is a work nothing in civilization has made simple (Rich, 1978, p. 35) In the growing body of literature on the nature of conflict in lesbian relationships, researchers have often focused on the balance of power between female partners. For example, Renzetti's (1989) contention that dependence is a correlate of abuse resembles the characterization of the interpersonal dynamics of lesbian relationships in much of the literature on merging or fusion (terms that are used interchangeably in the psychological literature and in this article). Fusion is frequently identified as a source of conflict in lesbian couples, yet articles on fusion often Downloaded from fail to define the word conflict or to investigate the possibility that it encompasses behaviors other than normal healthy arguing.This article explores the role of fusion in women's relationships. First, it reviews the affect of socialization on lesbian relationships. Then it presents not only the authors' study of the frequency of reported fusion among lesbians and heterosexual women, but also it illustrates other relational characteristics that are related to fusion.

Sexual Satisfaction and Desire Discrepancy in Same Sex Women's Relationships

“…This scrutiny is especially apparent in the concept of bonding within lesbian relationships. Often, the term fused is applied to lesbian relationships in an attempt to describe the closeness between women (Greene, Causby, & Miller, 1999). Fusion is most often perceived to be a negative, unhealthy way of interacting and particularly filled with pathology when compared with the male model of relating that mandates a separate, autonomous, clearly differentiated way of interacting (Greene et al, 1999;Surrey, 1991).…”

“…Often, the term fused is applied to lesbian relationships in an attempt to describe the closeness between women (Greene, Causby, & Miller, 1999). Fusion is most often perceived to be a negative, unhealthy way of interacting and particularly filled with pathology when compared with the male model of relating that mandates a separate, autonomous, clearly differentiated way of interacting (Greene et al, 1999;Surrey, 1991). However, Greene et al, (1999) found that women in either lesbian or straight relationships who perceived high fusion in their relationships were more relationally satisfied than those who did not.…”

“…Fusion is most often perceived to be a negative, unhealthy way of interacting and particularly filled with pathology when compared with the male model of relating that mandates a separate, autonomous, clearly differentiated way of interacting (Greene et al, 1999;Surrey, 1991). However, Greene et al, (1999) found that women in either lesbian or straight relationships who perceived high fusion in their relationships were more relationally satisfied than those who did not. Yet, because there is little support for relating closely while living in a culture that elevates a differentiated and autonomous way of relating as the more favored arrangement, the desire to be connected in this way can lead women in emotionally close same-sex relationships to view themselves as abnormal.…”

Impact of Mental Health on Perceptions of Relationship Satisfaction and Quality Among Female Same-Sex Couples

“…While some of these studies have included data from same-sex couples, little is known about various factors that may influence the perceptions of relationship quality (support, depth of feelings, conflict, intimacy, commitment, and passion) and the degree of relationship satisfaction within female same-sex couples. Within this limited body of work, lesbian relationships have been alternately described as overly enmeshed (Burch, 1982;Krestan & Bepko, 1980), or supportive and positive with high levels of intimacy and relationship satisfaction (Green, Causby, & Miller, 1999). Notably, these seemingly disparate interpretations often emerge from very similar data.…”

Lesbians Surviving Culture

“…Fusion reveals a commitment in lesbian love relationships and steadies threatened boundaries in perhaps the couple's inseparability, intense closeness, and dependence on each other. Emotional reliance and dependence on one's partner in a heteronormative culture, which prescribes individuation and autonomy, are subsequently labeled as dysfunctional; however, this closeness not only strengthens the bond between two women but is protective and satisfying to them (Greene et al, 1999;Mencher, 1990). This relational connection to one's partner compels some separation or physical disconnection from the heteronormative culture that maligns it.…”