Work

A Mixed-Method Study of Same-Sex Kissing Among College-Attending Heterosexual Men in the U.S.

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: This is the first research to assess the prevalence of same-sex kissing among college-attending, heterosexual men in the United States. We utilized a mixed-method study of 442 quantitative surveys and 75 in-depth interviews with participants from 11 universities in order to understand the frequency, context and meanings of same-sex kissing. We found that the prevalence of kissing on the cheek among these participants was 40%, and kissing on the lips 10%. Both types of kisses were predicted by positive attitudes toward gay men and both types of kissing were generally described as non-sexual expressions of affection. We situate these empirical results within contemporary theoretical debates about masculinities and contend that the meanings associated with heterosexual masculinity are undergoing a profound shift in U.S. culture. This trend of same-sex kissing needs further attention to fully understand these shifts and the emerging homosocial and tactile experiences of young American men.

Source: Sexuality & Culture

DOI: 10.1007/s12119-018-9560-0

Authors: Eric Anderson, Matthew Ripley, Mark McCormack

Institutions: University of Winchester, University of Southern California, University of Roehampton

Language: English

Topic: Gender and Feminist Studies

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,190

Funder: American Institute of Bisexuality