The Impact of Bisexual Identity on Sexual and Relationship Satisfaction of Mixed Sex Couples

Abstract

Despite advances in research into minority sexual identities, bisexual identity research has been limited. Studies conducted to date suggest that bisexuality is often perceived as a ‘transitional’ identity and bisexual individuals in relationships are often perceived to be either straight, lesbian, or gay based on the gender of their relationship partner. The current couple-based study focuses on the experiences of bisexual individuals in mixed-sex relationships and how bisexual identity may impact sexual and relationship satisfaction of both members of the couple. Cross-sectional data were analyzed from both members of 142 mixed-sex couples (N = 284). Analyses indicated that feelings of illegitimacy of bisexuality and outness to family were negatively associated with sexual and relationship satisfaction of both partners whereas intimacy was positively associated with sexual satisfaction for both partners. The results highlight the importance of acknowledging bisexual identity even in the context of long-term relationships and addressing issues surrounding bisexual identity in its function for sexual and relationship satisfaction with couples.

Keywords:

• Bierasure
• bisexuality
• couples
• relationship satisfaction
• sexual satisfaction

Additional information

Funding

This article was supported by a grant from the American Institute of Bisexuality.

Notes on contributors

Kristen P. Mark

Kristen P. Mark , PhD, MPH is an Associate Professor in Health Promotion and Director of the Sexual Health Promotion Lab at University of Kentucky. She holds a PhD in Health Behavior and an MPH in Biostatistics from Indiana University.

Laura M. Vowels

Laura M. Vowels , MS is a Doctoral Student in Psychology at University of Southampton and a practicing couple’s therapist. Her MS degree is in Family Science with a concentration in Couple and Family Therapy from University of Kentucky.

Amanda M. Bunting

Amanda M. Bunting , PhD is a Postdoctoral Scholar in the Department of Population Health at New York University School of Medicine. Her doctoral degree is in Sociology from University of Kentucky.