Relationships Challenges and the LGBTQIA+ First Responder  Survey

Hi, I'm Katie! I am a licensed therapist and communication coach, seeking to better understand the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ First Responders. As the spouse of a First Responder and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have some insights about the challenges and struggles couples face when one or both are First Responders. So to serve our community more effectively, I would appreciate learning more about the perspectives of First Responders themselves.

As you might guess - there is almost NO research on this topic, this community is being dramatically overlooked. So if you take 3-5 minutes to complete this brief survey, you'll be giving a voice to your community and aiding in the development of more specialized services to help the LGBTQIA+ First Responder community build thriving relationships!

1.Are you currently in some form of intimate relationship?

Yes

No

I don't define it as a "relationship," but I do engage in intimacy with others.

2.Do you think your career as a First Responder impacts your ability to find/stay in an intimate partnership?

Yes

No

Sometimes

3.To what degree do you feel your career as a First Responder challenges your intimate relationship(s)?

4.In what ways do you feel your intimate relationship(s) are challenged by the effects of your career? (Check all that apply).

Anything else?

5.If you had to pick one thing you feel like your partner(s) can never fully understand about the demands you face in your career, what would it be?

The exhaustion of shift work and need for sleep

Needing time to decompress; Needing alone time

The cumulative trauma and how difficult it is to think or talk about

The culture and camaraderie I share with my colleagues

Something else? Please share:

6.What is your age?

7.What is you gender identity?

8.What is your sexual orientation?

10.Which race/ethnicity best describes you? (Please choose only one.)

Multiple ethnicity / Other (please specify)