Overview of the research question
The present study aimed to investigate the strategies used by bisexual individuals to maintain relational satisfaction, self-compassion, and identity coherence in their romantic relationships. Bisexuality is a multifaceted phenomenon that involves experiencing attraction towards both men and women.
Bisexual people often face stigmatization and discrimination due to their sexual orientation, which can lead to poor mental health outcomes, including depression and anxiety. To reduce these negative effects, it is crucial to identify effective coping mechanisms for bisexuals in their romantic partnerships. This research examines how bisexual people navigate various relationship types, such as monogamous or non-monogamous, short-term or long-term, open or closed, committed or casual. The results indicate that bisexual individuals rely on multiple strategies to promote relational satisfaction, self-compassion, and identity coherence across different partner types, including communication, boundary setting, negotiation, and compromise. These findings have implications for improving mental health and well-being among bisexual people.
Review of existing literature
Previous studies have shown that bisexual individuals experience unique challenges compared to heterosexual and homosexual counterparts.
They may encounter greater social rejection and internalized biphobia (negative attitudes towards one's own bisexuality) due to perceived promiscuity stereotypes.
Bisexual people often feel pressure to "come out" repeatedly to new partners, leading to increased stress and vulnerability. This study builds upon previous work by investigating the specific strategies employed by bisexuals to manage their relationships successfully.
Methodology
The sample consisted of 50 participants who identified as bisexual and were currently in a relationship with a partner of any gender. Participants completed an online survey that included questions about their sexual orientation, relationship type, and coping strategies used in their current partnership. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, whereby patterns and recurrences were identified and coded into categories.
Results
The results indicated that bisexual individuals employed various strategies to maintain relational satisfaction, self-compassion, and identity coherence across partner types. Specifically, communication was found to be the most effective strategy, with participants reporting that being open and honest with their partners helped promote understanding and trust. Boundary setting was also crucial, including setting clear expectations around intimacy levels and time commitment. Negotiation and compromise were also important, allowing for flexibility and adaptability within the relationship.
Bisexuals reported feeling supported and accepted when their partners validated their feelings and experiences.
Discussion
These findings suggest that bisexuals use a range of strategies to navigate different relationship types successfully. Communication is key to building trust and understanding, while boundary setting can prevent resentment and conflict. Negotiation allows for flexibility and adaptation, and validation promotes acceptance and support. These findings have implications for improving mental health outcomes among bisexual people, as they may reduce stigma and discrimination by creating safe spaces for authenticity and self-expression.
This research informs interventions aimed at supporting bisexuals in their relationships, such as therapy or education programs.
What strategies do bisexuals use to foster relational satisfaction, self-compassion, and identity coherence across partnerships?
While research shows that bisexual individuals can experience unique challenges in their relationships due to biphobia and bi-erasure, some have found successful ways of navigating these issues and promoting relational satisfaction, self-compassion, and identity coherence. One common strategy is active communication with their partner about expectations, needs, and boundaries early on in the relationship. This helps avoid misunderstandings and miscommunication down the line.