Work

Blurred Lines: Exploring Bisexual Identity in the Face of Invalidation in a Spanish-Speaking Sample

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: (1) Background: This article explores the qualitative dimensions of bisexual identity through the lived experiences of bisexual individuals. (2) Methods: Drawing on an online questionnaire completed by 226 participants from a Spanish-speaking sample, the study uses a grounded theory-based analysis of participant narratives. (3) Results: The analysis identifies key components of bisexual identity, such as self-recognition, fluidity, and community belonging, as well as recurrent experiences of invalidation, promiscuity stereotypes, and intracommunity discrimination. The findings highlight the processes by which participants navigate and define their bisexuality, emphasizing the interaction between personal introspection, contact with audiovisual media, societal perceptions, and external validation in identity formation. (4) Conclusions: These results provide a nuanced exploration of how bisexual identities are constructed amid persistent challenges of invalidation, erasure, and limited community recognition.

Source: Sexes

DOI: 10.3390/sexes7020016

Authors: Alejandro Kepp Termini, Marta Evelia Aparicio-García

Institution: Universidad Complutense de Madrid

Language: English

Topic: LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Gender equality

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207