This study examined reactions to separation in both partners of gay and lesbian couples whose relationships ended a mean of 5.92 months ago. There were no differences between gay and lesbian respondents on reasons for the separation, emotional adjustment to the separation and problems since the separation. The most common reasons for the dissolution of the relationship, the most common emotional experiences since the separation and the most frequently reported problems since the separation were identified. Information available from respondents during the last year of cohabitation indicated that the person adjusting well to the separation completed many years of education, knew his or her partner for a few months and lived with that partner for a few months, did not pool finances with the ex-partner, reported low love for the partner, placed a low value on attachment to the partner and reported low severity of psychological distress.
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