Jessamyn Bowling

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

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.

Sexual diversity in the United States: Results from a nationally representative probability sample of adult women and men

In 2015, we conducted a cross-sectional, Internet-based, U.S. nationally representative probability survey of 2,021 adults (975 men, 1,046 women) focused on a broad range of sexual behaviors. Individuals invited to participate were from the GfK KnowledgePanel®. The survey was titled the 2015 Sexual Exploration in America Study and survey completion took about 12 to 15 minutes. The survey was confidential and the researchers never had access to respondents’ identifiers. Respondents reported on demographic items, lifetime and recent sexual behaviors, and the appeal of 50+ sexual behaviors. Most (>80%) reported lifetime masturbation, vaginal sex, and oral sex. Lifetime anal sex was reported by 43% of men (insertive) and 37% of women (receptive). Common lifetime sexual behaviors included wearing sexy lingerie/underwear (75% women, 26% men), sending/receiving digital nude/semi-nude photos (54% women, 65% men), reading erotic stories (57% of participants), public sex (≥43%), role-playing (≥22%), tying/being tied up (≥20%), spanking (≥30%), and watching sexually explicit videos/DVDs (60% women, 82% men). Having engaged in threesomes (10% women, 18% men) and playful whipping (≥13%) were less common. Lifetime group sex, sex parties, taking a sexuality class/workshop, and going to BDSM parties were uncommon (each <8%). More Americans identified behaviors as “appealing” than had engaged in them. Romantic/affectionate behaviors were among those most commonly identified as appealing for both men and women. The appeal of particular behaviors was associated with greater odds that the individual had ever engaged in the behavior. This study contributes to our understanding of more diverse adult sexual behaviors than has previously been captured in U.S. nationally representative probability surveys. Implications for sexuality educators, clinicians, and individuals in the general population are discussed.

Sexual Relationships, Behaviors, and Experiences Among Bisexual Men in Mumbai, India

ABSTRACT Objectives: This exploratory study attempted to assess a range of sexual behaviors, relationships, and related factors among a sample of bisexual men in Mumbai, India. Methods: Data collection occurred in two separate phases. First, focus group discussions were facilitated with local community members in order to finalize an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Afterward, structured interviews were conducted with a sample of 50 bisexual men using this questionnaire. Results: Participants reported a wide range of sexual behaviors and relationships with male and female partners. Conclusions: Findings have implications for future research and practice focusing on bisexual men in India,as well as their partners of all genders.

Sexuality-related communication within the family context: experiences of bisexual parents with their children in the United States of America

Abstract Although many self-identified bisexual individuals report having at least one child, bisexual parents’ unique experiences, including sexuality-related communication with their children, have been largely absent from the parenting literature. We conducted in-depth interviews via telephone (or digital telephony such as voice over Internet protocol) with 33 individuals who self-identified as bisexual were at least 18 years old, had at least one child (genetic, adopted, step, foster, guardian or partner’s child) and currently living in the USA. Nearly all participants encouraged their children to be tolerant of sexual and gender diversity. Sexual behaviours were primarily discussed in terms of protection from sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy. Participants’ approaches to communication included non-verbal methods (e.g. role modelling) and pragmatic verbal discussion. Participants employed numerous strategies, including age-appropriate, child-driven and opportunistic discussions. Some parents did not discuss sexuality at all with their children. Many had not received training in childhood development or sexuality education. The participants’ experiences were often similar to previous research on parents of other sexual identities. However, due to the unique stigma associated with bisexuality, findings point to a need for developing and providing targeted resources for bisexual parents to assist in discussions about sexuality within the family context.

Perceived health concerns among sexual minority women in Mumbai India: an exploratory qualitative study.

Abstract The experiences of sexual minority women (i.e., women who do not identify as ‘heterosexual’) in India have largely been absent in scientific literature. In partnership with India’s oldest and largest sexual and gender minority-advocacy organisation, the Humsafar Trust, our study used community-based participatory research principles to explore the lived experiences and health concerns of sexual minority women in Mumbai. Study methodologies included interviews with key informants, a focus group comprised of six women, and an additional 12 in-person interviews with sexual minority women to identify important physical, mental, social and other health priorities from these women’s perspectives. Thematic data are organised within the framework offered by the social ecological model, including individual, interpersonal, micro and macro levels. Findings from this study are important in providing the groundwork for future research and intervention involving sexual minority women in India, a dramatically underserved population.

Diversity and commonalities in relationship experiences among self-identified bisexual parents in the United States

ABSTRACT Although bisexual parents represent the largest proportion of lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) parents, their lived experiences are rarely included in prior research. The intimate relationships of bisexual parents may be similar to or distinct from monosexual (i.e. sexually oriented to one sex/gender) individuals, and such relationships impact individuals’ health and well-being, as well as family dynamics. We conducted phone interviews with 33 self-identified bisexual parents who were at least 18 years old, with at least one child (genetic, adopted, foster, stepchildren, partners’ children) living in the United States. As with individuals of all sexual identities, participants’ relationship structures (e.g. monogamy, commitment, co-parenting with former partners, single, dating) were diverse. Most participants’ partners were supportive of their bisexuality. Former relationships were often significant in positive ways, including beneficial co-parenting, or in negative ways, including poor co-parenting and experiences of biphobia. Open communication, boundary negotiation, and counseling were all strategies that reportedly strengthened relationships. Many participants viewed relationships differently based on the gender of their partner(s), and biphobia impacted these perceptions. Participants expressed the desire for targeted resources and therapeutic approaches for bisexual parents, since their role as a parent was often a primary factor in how they organized their relationships.

Social support relationships for sexual minority women in Mumbai, India: a photo elicitation interview study

Abstract Little research exists on women who do not identify as heterosexual in India. Social support for sexual minority women may protect against the effects of discrimination. An examination of significant social relationships may point to both strengths and weaknesses in this support. We aimed to understand relationship prioritisation and communication patterns associated with the social support of sexual minority women in Mumbai. In partnership with the Humsafar Trust, India’s oldest and largest sexual and gender minority-advocacy organisation, we conducted photo-elicitation interviews with 18 sexual minority women, using participants’ photographs to prompt dialogue about their social support. Intimate partners were a source of dependable support and many of those without relationships were seeking them. Participants’ extended networks included friends and family as well as less formal relationships of social support. Participants mediated their communication with particular social network members, which involved filtering information sexual identity, romantic interests, and personal aspirations, among others. The diverse relationships that sexual minority women have in their social support networks may be used to guide programmes to improve health outcomes.

Female condom acceptability in urban India: Examining the role of sexual pleasure

This qualitative study examined the acceptability of female condoms in urban India, with a focus on sexual pleasure. We conducted focus group discussions with 50 women and 19 men, as well as a small number of individual interviews with women (n = 3), in Chennai and New Delhi. Perceived benefits of female condoms included protection against unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, increased sense of empowerment for women, and simple clean up. The most common drawback was reduced sensation. Participants suggested structural changes to the female condom to ease insertion and use. Consent and privacy were discussed as increasing sexual pleasure. Pleasure should be acknowledged in design and education efforts to increase female condom use.

Paths to Parenthood Among Self-Identified Bisexual Individuals in the United States

Bisexual parents have been notably absent from prior research on parenting, despite comprising the largest proportion of parents among “lesbian, gay, and bisexual” (LGB) individuals. Indeed, recent national probability data indicate that young bisexual women are more likely than their heterosexual counterparts to report having at least one child. Intentions to have children, patterns of family planning and contraception use, and related issues have important implications for health and healthcare-related decisions and priorities among bisexual parents. We conducted in-depth interviews with a sample of 33 bisexual parents from across the U.S. who reported having at least one child (genetic, adopted, step or foster child, guardian, and/or warden of the state). In cases of intentional pregnancies, participants considered relationship and financial stability, job security and their ideal family size. Unintentional pregnancies, as well as pregnancy terminations, were often reframed as positive experiences. After deciding not to have more children, participants reported using contraceptive methods, including sterilization or long-acting reversible contraceptive methods (e.g., intrauterine devices). Instances of deception, in which partners deceived participants with false beliefs regarding their contraceptive use, were recalled negatively for the relatively small number of participants who reported such experiences. Overall, our findings point to a diversity in the intentions and ways bisexual individuals become parents, similar to parents of other sexual identities. Acknowledgements of the diverse experiences and concerns faced by bisexual parents may be beneficial in improving efforts related to providing appropriate and relevant health- and healthcare-related services.