This article reviews empirical studies of same-sex couples in the United States, highlighting consistent findings, drawing comparisons to heterosexual couples, and noting gaps in available research. U.S. Census data indicate that there were more than 600,000 same-sex couples living together in 2000. Research about relationship formation, the division of household labor, power, satisfaction, sexuality, conflict, commitment, and relationship stability is presented. Next, we highlight three recent research topics: the legalization of same-sex relationships through civil unions and same-sex marriage, the experiences of same-sex couples raising children, and the impact of societal prejudice and discrimination on same-sex partners. We conclude with comments about the contributions of empirical research to debunking negative stereotypes of same-sex couples, testing the generalizability of theories about close relationships, informing our understanding of gender and close relationships, and providing a scientific basis for public policy.

中文翻译：

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女同性恋者和男同性恋者的亲密关系。

本文回顾了美国同性伴侣的实证研究，强调了一致的发现，与异性伴侣进行了比较，并指出了现有研究的空白。美国人口普查数据表明，2000年有60万同性伴侣生活在一起。研究了有关关系形成，家庭分工，权力，满意度，性取向，冲突，承诺和关系稳定性的问题。接下来，我们重点介绍三个近期的研究主题：通过民间工会和同性婚姻使同性关系合法化，同性伴侣抚养子女的经历以及社会偏见和歧视对同性伴侣的影响。