Mental health, relationships, and sex: exploring patterns among bisexual individuals in mixed orientation relationships

ABSTRACT

Drawing on minority stress theory and sexual health literature, this exploratory study tested the relations of bisexual identity factors (e.g. anticipated binegativity, identity affirmation), minority stressors (e.g. isolation and vicarious trauma), and sexual and relationship variables (e.g. sexual functioning, relationship satisfaction) with mental health. Participants were 53 self-identified bisexual individuals in a mixed orientation relationship (MORE) with partners who did not also identify as bisexual. Moderate or above levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were reported by 34.5%, 25.4%, and 27.3% of the sample, respectively. Minority stressors were examined as mediators of the relations of bisexual identity factors and mental health outcomes. Isolation significantly mediated anticipated binegativity and depression, anxiety, and stress. Additionally, vicarious trauma mediated the relation of bisexual identity affirmation with anxiety. Consistent with existing literature, mental health concerns were negatively correlated with various aspects of sexual functioning and relationship satisfaction. Bisexual individuals in monogamous relationships with lesbian-identified partners reported lower stress levels than those with heterosexual partners. Results from the current study provide preliminary information about the health of bisexual individuals in MOREs, and point to minority stressors as potentially fruitful targets of prevention and intervention efforts to reduce negative mental health outcomes among bisexual populations.

KEYWORDS:

• Bisexual
• relationships
• sexual orientation
• mixed orientation relationships
• mixed orientation marriages

Acknowledgment

The research team would like to thank the American Institute of Biexuality (AIB) for their support of this project.

Disclosure statement

Coauthor Alex Iantaffi discloses his status as current Editor in Chief of Sexual and Relationship Therapy. This interest has been discussed fully with Taylor & Francis, and the authors have in place an approved plan for managing any potential conflicts of interest. Coauthor Jennifer Vencill discloses her status as co-Editor of the Special Issue within which this manuscript is published. This interest has been discussed fully with Taylor & Francis, and the authors have in place an approved plan for managing any potential conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by the American Institute of Bisexuality (AIB).