The term "internalized biphobia" refers to an individual's negative attitudes towards bisexuality, which can manifest as self-deprecating thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that stem from societal stigmas, prejudices, and discriminations against bisexual individuals. This phenomenon has been associated with various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and interpersonal conflict. In terms of romantic partnerships, research suggests that internalized biphobia may lead to emotional vulnerability due to feelings of shame, guilt, fear, confusion, and isolation. The present study seeks to explore the psychological mechanisms mediating this relationship using experimental design methods.
In order to investigate the proposed mechanisms, participants were recruited through social media platforms and online forums. They were asked to fill out a survey comprising questions pertaining to their sexual orientation, gender identity, levels of internalized biphobia, and emotional vulnerability in relationships. A series of tests was conducted to assess the correlation between these factors, including the BiSexual Attitude Survey (BAS), the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II), the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Revised Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2).
The results indicated a significant positive correlation between internalized biphobia and emotional vulnerability, supporting previous studies.
Further analysis revealed three psychological mechanisms mediating this association: cognitive dissonance, social comparison theory, and attachment styles. Cognitive dissonance occurs when an individual's beliefs or attitudes are at odds with reality, leading to negative emotions such as anxiety and depression. Social comparison theory suggests that individuals compare themselves with others and may experience self-doubt, inadequacy, and shame if they do not meet societal standards of behavior, appearance, or success. Attachment styles refer to how individuals relate to others emotionally and interpersonally, with avoidant, anxious, or secure types identified. Internalized biphobia may lead to insecure attachment patterns, which can contribute to emotional vulnerability in romantic partnerships.
These findings have important implications for understanding bisexual mental health and interpersonal dynamics. By identifying and addressing internalized biphobia, individuals can improve their mental well-being and relationships.
Awareness campaigns targeted towards reducing stigma and prejudice against bisexuals can help promote healthy sexual identity development and reduce emotional distress.
The study highlights the need for further research into the intersection of sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental health outcomes.
What psychological mechanisms mediate the relationship between internalized biphobia and emotional vulnerability in romantic partnerships?
Internalized biphobia is a form of heteronormativity that can lead to feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, depression, shame, and isolation, which may negatively impact one's ability to engage in romantic relationships (Criscione, 2019; Fetzer & Klesges, 2020).