Sexual orientation and jealousy: A systematic review of the literature

Some people highlight jealousy as being part of their romantic relationships. The topic, however, remains underexplored in the case of same-gender couples. The present review aimed to (a) investigate the theoretical background to jealousy amongst gay and lesbian (GL) individuals; (b) examine differences regarding romantic jealousy between GL men and women compared with heterosexuals; (c) identify the factors that predict gender differences in jealousy in GL relationships; and (d) offer suggestions for future research. A systematic literature search was conducted using the SCOPUS, ProQuest, PsycINFO, EBSCO, ERIC, SAGEpub, PubMed, and Web of Science electronic databases. Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that the evolutionary perspective was the most commonly applied framework for explanations of jealousy, though there was a degree of variation. Most of the studies reported differences between GL and heterosexual individuals in terms of the intensity and expression of jealousy, the characteristics of rivals, types, and experiences of infidelity, involvement in romantic relationships, and associated emotions. Gender differences among GL individuals were apparent in beliefs regarding the co-occurrence of sexual and emotional infidelity, social dominance and comparison, reactive types of jealousy, the quality of relationships, levels of commitment and upset over sexual compared with emotional infidelity, and types of communication in responses to jealousy. It is hoped that the results will help specialists working with GL individuals who are experiencing difficulties in their relationships.