U-Haul lesbian

U-Haul lesbian or U-Haul syndrome is an LGBT slang term used to describe a stereotype of lesbian relationships. The term originated from the punch line of a joke that lesbians tended to move in together on the second date. It suggests an extreme inclination toward monogamy or committed relationships. It is considered both complimentary and pejorative.

Origin

A joke which references U-Haul (a brand of rental "move it yourself" trucks and trailers) became well-known in North American LGBT lesbian culture.

Question: What does a lesbian bring on a second date?

Answer: A U-Haul.

Often attributed to comic Lea DeLaria, the joke suggests that lesbians move in together after only a short period of time. The reference to a "U-Haul" later became a stereotype of sexual identity in the gay community. The joke is considered a staple of lesbian humor, but also is popular outside the LBGT community. It is sometimes followed or preceded by a standard joke about gay men:

Question: What does a gay man bring on a second date?

Answer: What second date?

"U-Haul" lesbians and relationships

Psychologists note that the U-Haul joke epitomizes the perceived phenomenon of lesbians to form intense emotional connections, referred to in gay slang as an urge to merge. Critics of this alleged tendency suggest that it is used by lesbians to avoid the risks involved with dating. In their view, an aversion to the risks of dating is linked to a stunted development of intimate relationships during the teenage years when most gays and lesbians are in the closet. With the freedom of adulthood, lesbians become drawn to the "U-Haul" relationships, appreciating their intensity and intimacy.

Despite the U-haul concept's positive suggestion that lesbians do not have difficulties committing to relationships, some psychologists also believe that this behavior can be unhealthy. They argue that the short dating span bypasses serious discussion on many relationship issues prior to moving in (such as sexual compatibility or future expectations) and this can manifest itself in various problems later on.

Criticisms

A common criticism of the "U-Haul" joke is the negative impression that it gives of lesbians' coupling on literally the second date, when for the majority of relationships, that step normally happens several months or years after meeting, if ever.

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