Abstract

Acknowledging the limited research addressing the intersection of bisexuality, eating, and body image, this study aims to illuminate the nuanced experiences and unique challenges faced by bisexual individuals, thereby advocating for more inclusive and effective treatments and assessment measures within the field. Utilizing qualitative methods, thematic analysis was conducted on focus group discussions to explore the nuances of body image and eating behaviors within the bisexual experience. Findings revealed five key dimensions: navigating societal expectations through gendered pressures and over-sexualization, coping with clothing and physical appearance, contrasting dynamics of support in queer communities, embracing food autonomy, and navigating bisexual food stereotypes and aesthetic concerns. These findings underscore the importance of adopting a dimensional approach, akin to the HiTOP model, over rigid categorization when studying body image and eating behaviors, particularly considering the ambiguous experiences bisexual individuals face related to their sexual identity and gender. Replicating these findings in clinical populations through future research could elucidate their broader implications, shedding light on whether these experiences shared by bisexual individuals hold clinical significance.

Advisor

Karazsia, Bryan

Second Advisor

Craven, Christa

Department

Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies; Psychology

Keywords

body image, eating behaviors, bisexuality, sexual minority stress

Publication Date

2024

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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