“I Feel like This Contributed to my Ongoing Pattern of Hiding from my Sexuality Throughout my Later Life”: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis of the Biphobic Experiences of Bi+ Men

Minority stress theory posits a direct link for LGBTQ+ individuals between societal treatment (distal factors) and health concerns (Brooks, 1981; Meyer, 2003). Bi+individuals (individuals who are attracted to more than one gender) have disproportionately high rates of these concerns (Polihronakis et al., 2021). This study uses a reflexive thematic analysis to understand the biphobic experiences of bi+ men in hopes of knowing how best to tailor interventions aimed at reducing adverse health outcomes. Covert and overt experiences such as microaggressions, rejection, discrimination, harassment, and trauma were identified as common themes. Internalized biphobia was found to be a major commonality, typically following a biphobic event. Several participants also identified a religious basis for their experiences of biphobia. Participants identified these experiences as having a significant impact on their wellbeing. Each of the participants shared stories that provide insight into bi+ men’s experiences with biphobia.