Biphobia, Bierasure, and Bimisogyny: A Qualitative Exploration into the Contemporary Experiences of Bisexual Women Aged in Their 20’s

Bisexual people have a higher prevalence of mental health conditions than their gay/lesbian and heterosexual counterparts. They also experience targeted discrimination and feelings of invisibility of their sexual orientation known as biphobia and bierasure, respectively. Furthermore, bisexual women have a unique experience with fetishization of their sexuality known as bimisogyny, underscoring the need for nuanced understanding and targeted support. This study investigated the contemporary experiences of cisgender bisexual women aged in their 20’s, living in Australia and New Zealand. This qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews with seven bisexual women. Thematic analysis produced four main themes: firstly, bisexual women in their 20’s experience bimisogynistic attitudes and fetishization of their sexual orientation. Secondly, bierasure and biphobia occurred across multiple contexts including within interpersonal relationships, across both straight and queer communities, and in a broader societal context including systems, institutions, and discourse. Thirdly, bisexual women alluded to social media as a contemporary experience that both platforms bisexuality and further exposes them to binegative attitudes. Finally, contemporary societal attitudes have lasting impacts on bisexual women’s sense of self and mental health. Findings suggest that further research and societal action for bisexual communities is crucial for addressing social inequities, informing policy and practice, mitigating historical biases, and empowering these communities.