Bisexual Partners Research Articles

Intimate Dynamics and Relationship Satisfaction among LGB Adolescents: The Role of Sexual Minority Oppression.

Adolescent lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) romantic partners face the challenge of developing satisfactory relationships while managing stressors associated with being members of a stigmatized minority group due to their sexual minority status. The aims of this study were to explore and describe relationship dynamics among LGB adolescents that are in committed same-sex relationships in Portugal, to assess levels of satisfaction with their relationships, and to assess whether LGB oppression was associated with the likelihood of anticipating and experiencing problems within the relationship. A sample of 182 self-identified LGB adolescents (mean age = 17.89 years; SD = 1.99), completed an online survey consisting of various sociodemographic measures, a relationship dynamics questionnaire, a self-assessment of relationship satisfaction, and an adapted version of the Gay and Lesbian Oppressive Situations Inventory. Results show that participants were highly satisfied with their relationships, except those who were non-monogamous and less committed to their relationships. Participants showed moderate levels of LGB oppression situations, and, as demonstrated by the hierarchical multiple regression analysis, age (being older), having lower levels of commitment, and being exposed to higher levels of exclusion, rejection, and separation were strong predictors of lower levels of relationship satisfaction.

Partners and Prejudice: Bisexual Partner Gender and Experiences of Binegativity From Heterosexual, Lesbian, and Gay People.

Bisexual individuals may experience pervasive binegativity originating from both heterosexual and lesbian/gay (L/G) individuals as a result of various psychosocial and relational factors. The present study aimed to explore how partner gender is particularly associated with experiences of binegativity from heterosexual and L/G persons and to examine how such experiences are related to internalized binegativity. A total of 350 self-identified cisgender bisexual men and women from across the United States were recruited online for this study. Participants completed an online survey battery assessing levels of both experienced and internalized binegativity. Regression analysis results indicated that binegativity from L/G persons, but not heterosexual persons, was significantly and positively associated with internalized binegativity. A significant interaction between binegativity from L/G persons and partner gender revealed a stronger association among those in same-gender relationships, such that those with same-gender partners who reported binegativity from L/G persons experienced more internalized binegativity than those with other-gender partners. When further examined by gender, these findings appeared to be driven by the relation among women, but not men, as women in same-gender relationships who reported binegativity from L/G persons reported the highest levels of internalized binegativity. Among men, binegativity from heterosexual, but not L/G, persons was significantly related to internalized binegativity independent of partner gender. The present study highlights key gender differences in interpersonal factors related to binegativity and have important implications for clinical practice with bisexual clients facing stigma and advocacy work addressing bisexual discrimination.

Stigma, Disclosure and Relationship Agency in Black Women’s Sexual Relationships with Behaviorally Bisexual Black Men

The health needs and relationships of Black women partnered with behaviorally bisexual Black men are under addressed in the public health literature. This paper explores the relationship dynamics of Black women’s sexual relationships with behaviorally bisexual Black men. We conducted thirty qualitative interviews with a group of HIV negative and HIV positive women partnered with behaviorally bisexual Black men in the San Francisco Bay Area. Women took part in a one-time qualitative interview that addressed relationships, bisexual partners, sexuality, HIV risk behaviors, and disclosure. Women described experiences of their own and their partner’s experiences of disclosure and sexual stigma, along with structural racism and masculine cultural norms that contribute to men’s non-disclosure of sex with men. The paper identifies the ways in which disclosure and stigma are experienced by a sample of women in relationships with behaviorally bisexual Black male partners, pointing to the ways in which these women demonstrate sexual agency in these relationships. These sexual narratives emphasize the ways in which Black women are at once agentic and also navigate gendered vulnerability in their relationships with bisexual men. These findings of Black women’s sexual agency present a call to develop health interventions resonant with Black women’s relationship experiences and structures of bisexual relationships.

Bisexual inclusive couples therapy: assessment and treatment with bisexuals in mixed orientation relationships

ABSTRACTThis paper aims to improve understanding of why mixed orientation couples may seek treatment, as well as to support sex and relationship therapists in providing affirmative and respectful services. Mixed orientation relationships, relationships in which partners have different sexual orientation identities, can include a variety of combinations. This paper focuses on mixed orientation relationships in which one partner identifies as bisexual and the other partner does not. A bisexual identity and a mixed orientation relationship are not inherent problems; however, they can create interpersonal and intrapersonal conflicts that may lead to treatment. Therefore, sex and relationship therapists should be aware of special considerations that could improve treatment with bisexuals in mixed orientation relationships with gay, lesbian, and heterosexual partners. It is important for sex and relationship therapists to take additional care in assessing the meaning of sexual orientation to the bisexual partner, what it means to their non-bisexual partner, and what having a mixed orientation relationship means to the couple seeking treatment. The delicate issue of commitment is respectfully explored, and societal myths related to bisexuality are addressed. Affirmative therapy is proposed as an effective theoretical approach, along with the Ex-PLISSIT Model to guide treatment.

Dynamics of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Partner Violence: Is the Phenomenon Unique?

Dynamics of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Partner Violence: Is the Phenomenon Unique?

Home ranges of parthenogenetic and bisexual species in a community of Darevskia lizards (Reptilia: Lacertidae)

We analysed the home ranges of a community of Darevskia rock lizards composed of a bisexual species (D. valentini), two parthenogens (D. armeniaca and D. unisexualis), and two backcross forms between bisexual and unisexual forms. We estimated home range areas of ink-marked, GPS-located lizards using Minimum Convex Polygon (MCP) and 95% of the locations for those individuals with five or more sightings. The bisexual D. valentini was the species with the largest home ranges, distances travelled, and the most intersections. No differences between unisexual species and backcrosses were recorded for any comparison. In males, home range size and perimeter were related to morphological characteristics. Contrary to what has been described in allopatry, unisexual species showed smaller home ranges and fewer overlaps than sympatric bisexual species. We tentatively suggest that the presence of potential bisexual partners might increase sexual competition among parthenogenetic females while differences in habitat use should also be considered.

Conservative Beliefs, Attitudes Toward Bisexuality, and Willingness to Engage in Romantic and Sexual Activities With a Bisexual Partner.

Negative attitudes toward bisexuals have been documented among heterosexuals as well as lesbians/gay men, and a common theme is that bisexuals would not be suitable romantic or sexual partners. While gender, sexual orientation, and attitudes toward bisexuality influence people's willingness to engage in romantic or sexual activities with a bisexual partner, there are other individual differences that may contribute. The current study examined the associations between four types of conservative beliefs and willingness to engage in romantic/sexual activities with a bisexual partner in a sample of heterosexuals and lesbians/gay men (N=438). Attitudes toward bisexuality were examined as a mediator of these associations. In general, results indicated that higher social dominance orientation, political conservatism, and essentialist beliefs about the discreteness of homosexuality were associated with lower willingness to engage in romantic/sexual activities with a bisexual partner. Further, more negative attitudes toward bisexuality mediated these associations. There were several meaningful differences in these associations between heterosexual women, heterosexual men, lesbian women, and gay men, suggesting that influences on people's willingness to be romantically or sexually involved with a bisexual partner may differ for different gender and sexual orientation groups. Implications for reducing stigma and discrimination against bisexual individuals are addressed.

P16 LGV-an inner city cohort

Background/introduction LGV is hyperendemic amongst MSM in the UK. There is a strong association with HIV and hepatitis C infections. Aim(s)/objectives To assess the background, demographics, presentation and follow up of patients with confirmed LGV infection in an inner London cohort. To analyse compliance with BASHH auditable measures surrounding follow up testing including HIV and hepatitis C. Methods A retrospective case note review was conducted of all PCR confirmed LGV infections from 01.01.2005–31.07.14. Data was extracted looking at the demographics, presentation, risk factors, concurrent STIs and follow up of patients as per BASHH audit standards. Results 44 patients were identified. 43 were MSM and 1 a heterosexual female with a bisexual partner. 80% (35) presented with symptomatic LGV infection and 20% (9) had had a previous infection with LGV. 43% (19) were diagnosed with concurrent STIs; of which only 4 had extra rectal chlamydia (3 urethral and 1 eye). 64% (28) were known to be HIV positive at LGV diagnosis. Only 69% (11) of the remaining HIV negative patients had a documented HIV follow up test within 12 months of LGV diagnoses. 36% (4) of these were newly diagnosed with HIV. Out of the 24 documented hepatitis C tests within 12 months of LGV diagnosis there were 2 new cases of hepatitis C. Discussion/conclusion Our cohort largely reflects the UK epidemic and reinforces the strong association with HIV infection. The audit reveals poor adherence to BASHH standards for repeat testing, which will be addressed with a specific active recall process.

Attitudes Toward Casual Sex, Dating, and Committed Relationships With Bisexual Partners

Individual attitudes toward having casual sex, dating, and being in a committed relationship with a bisexual partner of the other gender were examined. Three hundred and seventy-three women and 347 men completed the online study. Female participants expressed moderately high levels of insecurity (e.g., worry, pressure, jealousy) toward relationships with bisexual male partners; insecurity tended to increase with the commitment level of the considered relationship. Male participants reported low to moderate levels of insecurity toward relationships with bisexual female partners; insecurity tended to be lowest for casual sex. Numerous predictors of attitudes toward bisexual partners were noted, including tolerance of and beliefs about the stability of a bisexual sexual orientation. The results of this study suggest that underlying misconceptions about bisexuality may be affecting individuals' interest in having relationships with bisexual partners and may represent a challenge to intimacy and stability within the couple.

Willingness to engage in romantic and sexual activities with bisexual partners: Gender and sexual orientation differences.

Willingness to engage in romantic and sexual activities with bisexual partners: Gender and sexual orientation differences.

Transmitted HIV Resistance Among Pregnant Young Women Infected with HIV-1 in Brazil

Transmitted HIV Resistance Among Pregnant Young Women Infected with HIV-1 in Brazil

P4.133 Perceived Infection Source Among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) and Transgender Women (TW) Recently Diagnosed with HIV, Syphilis, or Gonorrhoea/Chlamydia in Lima, Peru

BackgroundEpidemiologic data demonstrates unequal distribution of HIV and STIs among MSM in Peru, with higher risk sub-populations disproportionately affected. Perceptions about partners as source of recent acquired STIs and its...

Reflective Paper: Bisexual Issues in Sex Therapy: A Bisexual Surrogate Partner Relates Her Experiences from the Field

A surrogate partner is a trained professional who works with clients in sex therapy as part of a three-way therapeutic team, consisting of a psychotherapist, surrogate partner and client. This article looks at surrogate partner therapy and its relevance to bisexuals in therapy. The author approaches the subject from a personal and a professional perspective by using anecdotes, presenting case studies, background information about surrogate partner therapy as well as including elements from her own personal journal as a bisexual woman.

Nurturing the Relationships of All Couples: Integrating Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Concerns Into Premarital Education and Counseling Programs

Research shows that premarital counseling programs help engaged couples develop interpersonal and problem‐solving skills that enhance their marital relationships. Yet, there are limited services for same‐sex couples. This article assumes an integrated humanistic and social justice advocacy stance to explore the needs of lesbian, gay, and bisexual partners and develop recommendations for providing affirmative premarital counseling, with implications for counseling practice, training, and research.

Vulnerability to STIs/HIV: sociability and the life trajectories of young women who have sex with women in Rio de Janeiro

This study aims to better understand STI/HIV-related vulnerability among self-identified lesbians and bisexual young women aged 18–26 years in two neighbourhoods in Rio de Janeiro. Based on ethnographic observations and in-depth interviews, the paper analyses their life experiences and trajectories. Findings reveal that sexual identities and ties attributed to sexual interactions with women and men have an important role in influencing perceptions of vulnerability. The notion of STI and HIV risk is not well developed among women who have sex with women. It emerges largely in practices with bisexual female partners and those of the opposite sex, since in these the potential for HIV transmission (through contact with semen) is recognized. Sexually transmitted infection and HIV-related risk with male partners is seen as small by the women in the study, since such relationships are seen as ‘occasional’ and generally speaking occur with someone they know well. The value given to trust and the lack of alignment between sexual identities and sexual practices reinforces the need for approaches to STI and HIV prevention and care that prioritise the sexual history and practices of women and their sexual identities within specific contexts.

Unforeseen and Transformative: New Dimensions in the Third Quarter of My Life

Themes of the transformation marking the third quarter of my life were (a) an integration of non-Western philosophies and cultural traditions into my personal and professional perspective, (b) a deepening patience with the change process, (c) a recognition of the competing roles of personal accountability and context, (d) increasing internal energy and conceptualization power, and (e) realization of attitudinal shifts, physical and cognitive diminishment, altered coping styles, reordered priorities, and intimations of mortality that come with aging. My background is in teacher education for desegregating multiethnic schools. The changes I describe here were triggered by my husband's coming out as gay; my remarriage; my travels in Asia; explorations of science and metaphysics; founding the worldwide Straight Spouse Network to support, counsel, and educate straight spouses of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender partners and their families; moving to a retirement community; and activism to achieve equality in society, especially within faith communities.

Intimate Partner Violence Among Sexual Minorities in Japan: Exploring Perceptions and Experiences

Using qualitative interviews (n = 39) and participant observation (n = 54), this study documents perceptions and experiences of violence between lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex intimate partners in Japan, thereby providing exploratory, formative data on a previously unexamined issue. Results indicate that intimate partner violence (IPV) is experienced physically, sexually, and psychologically in all sexual minority groups. Participants perceived the violence to be: a) very similar to heterosexual IPV against women; b) more likely perpetrated and experienced by lesbians, bisexual women, and transgender persons compared to gay and bisexual men and intersex persons; c) the cause of several negative physical and mental health outcomes; and d) largely unrecognized in both sexual minority communities and broader Japanese society.

Bias Toward Bisexual Women and Men in a Marriage-Matching Task

SUMMARY The current research represents the first empirical study to examine attitudes towards bisexual women and men in the context of both traditional and same-sex marriage relationships. One-hundred fifty-five heterosexual women and men participated in a marriage matching task in which they created ideal marriage matches for profiles that differed across sexual orientation and HIV status. The results showed a clear perception that bisexual partners were best suited to other bisexual individuals (whether those individuals were of the same- or other-sex). In general, bisexual women and men were not seen as viable partners in cross-orientation marriages with heterosexual, lesbian, or gay individuals. Additionally, the results overwhelmingly emphasize the belief that HIV concordant pairings are ideal in marriage relationships.

AIDS Cases Among Women Who Reported Sex with a Bisexual Man, 2000-2004–United States

ABSTRACT Introduction: Some HIV-infected men who have sex with men also have sex with women. Additionally, some women do not know that they are or have been in a sexual relationship with a bisexual man. Knowledge of their male partner's risks for HIV infection is crucial if reductions in HIV/AIDS are to occur among women. Methods: We examined AIDS diagnosed cases reported to CDC from the 50 states and the District of Columbia, 2000 through 2004, in women aged 13 years and older. Cases were analyzed by transmission category, race/ethnicity, age at diagnosis, and geographic region, and data were adjusted for missing risk factor information and reporting delays. Results: From 2000 through 2004, an estimated 1,576 women (from a total of 35,376 women reported with HIV from heterosexual contact and diagnosed with AIDS) reported sexual contact with a bisexual man (BSXM) as their primary risk factor for HIV infection. Non-Hispanic blacks accounted for the majority (62.8%) of cases, followed by non-Hispanic whites (20.5%) and Hispanics (14.8%). The average AIDS rate attributed to sex with a BSXM differed significantly by race/ethnicity (p < 0.01), with the rate for non-Hispanic black women 13 times the rate for non-Hispanic whites and 4 times the rate for Hispanics. Sexual contact with a BSXM accounted for 6.3% of AIDS cases among non-Hispanic white women with heterosexually acquired HIV compared to 4.4% among Hispanics and 4.0% among non-Hispanic blacks. Conclusions: The proportion of AIDS cases among women attributed to sex with a BSXM was similar across races/ethnicities; however, rates were highest among non-Hispanic black women. Because some women were unaware of their male partner's risk for HIV infection, the number of women with AIDS who had a bisexual partner was probably under-reported. HIV prevention programs should provide information on risks of sex with BSXM, as many women may not be fully aware of their risks for acquiring HIV infection.

Helping Spouses Cope with Partners Coming Out: A Solution-Focused Approach

This article reviews previous research on coping strategies of spouses with partners who have come out. The current research on coping strategies has come from the work of Amity Pierce Buxton. Next the article examines previous treatment methods used with spouses of gay, lesbian, and bisexual partners. Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is discussed and suggested as an approach with this population. A case example is presented to show how SFBT was used with a client struggling with the news of her partner coming out. Finally, the implications of using SFBT and how the approach helps partners progress through Buxton's stages is discussed.