Heterosexual Attitudes and Behavioral Intentions Toward Bisexual Individuals: Does Geographic Area Make a Difference?

Abstract

Members of sexual minority groups continue to face discrimination and harassment. Although researchers have examined the experiences of sexual minority groups generally, less research is available that focuses on the unique experiences of each group specifically. Research suggests that bisexual individuals face unique stressors in comparison to gay or lesbian peers. Attitudes and behaviors toward sexual minority groups vary depending on the geographic location of the sample, with rural areas holding the most negative views. However, no research is available that examines this topic as it concerns bisexuality specifically. In response to this gap, the following questions were examined: do the behaviors and attitudes of heterosexuals differ based on the participant's geographic location during his or her upbringing (rural, urban, suburban), and do those reporting a rural hometown possess more negative attitudes toward bisexuals? Findings reflected differences between regions, with the most negative views associated with rural areas and the most positive associated with suburban areas.

KEYWORDS:

• bisexuality
• rural
• attitudes
• homosexuality
• acceptance
• heterosexual

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Stephen P. Casazza

Stephen Casazza and Emily Ludgwig are doctoral students in the Counseling Psychology Program at Radford University. Tracy Cohn is an associate professor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology at Radford University.