A Phenomenological Inquiry into Bisexual Men\u27s Identity Negotiation in Monogamous Heteronormative Romantic Relationships

This qualitative research study explored the way 10 self-identified bisexual men, ages 20 to 43, navigate their sexual identity within and outside the context of their monogamous, heteronormative, romantic relationships, and employed various strengths and resources to affirm and sustain their bisexual identity. Utilizing a phenomenological methodology of data collection and analysis, 11 main themes and 14 subthemes were revealed. These themes were organized into two models, which elucidated (a) areas of tension that exist at the intersection of participants’ bisexual identity and their identity in a heteronormative relationship, and (b) the strengths and resources these men drew upon to reconcile this dissonance and affirm their bisexual identity. The findings of this study have implications for clinical practice and future research as well as serve to give voice to an underrepresented and largely invisible population of bisexual men