Sexual Self-Identification Among Behaviorally Bisexual Men in the Midwestern United States

Abstract

Previous social and behavioral research on identity among bisexual men, when not subsumed within the category of men who have sex with men (MSM), has primarily focused on samples of self-identified bisexual men. Little is known about sexual self-identification among men who are behaviorally bisexual, regardless of sexual identity. Using qualitative data from 77 in-depth interviews with a diverse sample of behaviorally bisexual men (i.e., men who have had sex with at least one woman and at least one man in the past six months) from a large city in the Midwestern United States, we analyzed responses from a domain focusing on sexual self-identity and related issues. Overall, participants’ sexual self-identification was exceptionally diverse. Three primary themes emerged: (1) a resistance to, or rejection of, using sexual self-identity labels; (2) concurrent use of multiple identity categories and the strategic deployment of multiple sexual identity labels; and (3) a variety of trajectories to current sexual self-identification. Based on our findings, we offer insights into the unique lived experiences of behaviorally bisexual men, as well as broader considerations for the study of men’s sexuality. We also explore identity-related information useful for the design of HIV/STI prevention and other sexual health programs directed toward behaviorally bisexual men, which will ideally be variable and flexible in accordance with the wide range of diversity found in this population.

Exploring the Sexual Development Experiences of Black Bisexual Male Adolescents Over Time

“…Youth described attempting to reconcile often incongruent sexuality beliefs with personal and familial future orientation expectations. Previous research focused on bisexually identified adults has documented the need to normalize incongruence among the dimensions of sexual orientation (Baldwin et al, 2015, 2017; Rust, 1993). While significant strides have been made to shift away from dichotomous views of sexuality— either straight or gay (Fox, 2013) to more fluid and continuum-based approaches—additional educational efforts may be needed to challenge existing dichotomous sexuality thinking and to dislodge the bisexual orientation from the realm of confusion.…”

“…Recent research examining sexual identity trajectories among Black, White and Latino bisexual men revealed that ethnicity was an important factor in terms of how men organize, interpret and share their sexual identities, as well as sexual behaviors with partners of more than one gender, with others (Baldwin et al, 2015). Wilson (2008) proposed a dynamic ecological model of ethnic, sexual, and masculine identity formation and conflict to deconstruct bisexual behavior among African-American men.…”

Reasons for Non-Disclosure of Sexual Orientation Among Behaviorally Bisexual Men: Non-Disclosure as Stigma Management

“…However, other reasons for non-disclosure depart from those anticipated by stigma management theory. For example, consistent with the identity development perspective, some men have reported not disclosing because they do not identify as bisexual or are uncertain about their sexual identity (Baldwin et al, in press, McCormack, Wignall, & Anderson, 2015; Wheeler, 2006). Other studies have found that some behaviorally-bisexual men report they conceal their sexual orientation because they feel others have no right to know this personal information, even their female sexual partners if they consistently use condoms (Malebranche et al, 2010; Schrimshaw et al, 2014).…”

Straight white American college students’ attitudes toward a self-identified straight, not gay or gay man who has sex with men: incongruent sexual orientation identity diminishes perceived psychological health

“…Although men who have sex with men (MSM) or with both men and women (MSMW) are often thought to be gay, the men need not think of themselves as gay, and many do not, instead identifying as straight or heterosexual (Baldwin et al, 2015;Martínez-Donate et al, 2010;Pathela et al, 2006). Some researchers and therapists perceive these men as having psychological problems (Cabaj, 2009;Higgins, 2006;Wester, 2008), whereas others accept their straight identity (Kort with Morgan, 2014;Silva, 2015;Ward, 2015).…”

“…Some researchers and therapists perceive these men as having psychological problems (Cabaj, 2009;Higgins, 2006;Wester, 2008), whereas others accept their straight identity (Kort with Morgan, 2014;Silva, 2015;Ward, 2015). MSM may find it confusing or unnecessary to define themselves (Blumstein & Schwartz, 1977;Murray, 2000), feel it easier or preferable to identify as heterosexual or as 'not gay' than to identify as gay or bisexual (Baldwin et al, 2015;Han, Rutledge, Bond, Lauby, & LaPollo, 2014), or define themselves based on part of their sexuality, e.g., their romantic same-sex sexual fantasies and behaviours, demonstrates a consistent same-sex erotic desire and is always romantically oriented towards men.…”