“This is Not a Lesbian Wedding”: Examining Same-Sex Marriage and Bisexual-Lesbian Couples

SUMMARY

This study examines the ways in which legally recognized same-sex marriage (SSM) has impacted the lives of cross-sexual orientation same-sex couples. Twenty-six, female-female couples, consisting of one bisexual and one lesbian partner, who were married or engaged to be married in Massachusetts participated in instant messenger interviews about their experiences with SSM. Results indicated that SSM impacted participants' views of themselves, their relationship, their relationships within their social network, and their interaction with the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer (GLBTQ) community. The study highlights how SSM, as a civil institution and specific expression of commitment, both affirmed and challenged bisexual identities and the unique SSM experiences of cross-sexual orientation couples.

KEYWORDS:

• Bisexual
• cross-sexual orientation couples
• lesbian
• same-sex couples
• same-sex marriage