Mixed Messages: How Primary Agents of Socialization Influence Adolescent Females who Identify as Multiracial–Bisexual

Abstract

The goals of this study were to highlight the often stigmatized and invisible identities of six female participants who identify as multiracial/biracial–bisexual/pansexual, focusing on the pre-college context. Findings, using in-depth interviews, indicated that the primary socializing agents within the pre-college context strongly influenced racial and sexual labels and whether participants integrated their identities or kept them separate. In addition, distance from significant others, in college, spurred further identity development. The findings are exploratory but highlight the relevance of socializing agents on adolescent identity development and the need for continued global support for individuals with multiple, marginal, fluid identities.

KEYWORDS:

• Adolescence
• bisexual
• female
• identity development
• multiracial
• pansexual
• race/ethnicity
• socialization

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Alissa R. King

Alissa R. King, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In addition to teaching courses in sociology, King is involved in social justice initiatives and study abroad opportunities at her institution.