"It's just a phase": Identity denial experiences, self-concept clarity, and emotional well-being in bisexual individuals. Issue 4 (19th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Garr-Schultz, Alexandra; Gardner, Wendi
• Is Part Of: Self and identity. Volume 20:Issue 4(2021)
• Page Start: 528
• Page End: 544
• Publication Date: 2021-05-19
• Subjects: Identity -- identity denial -- sexual minorities -- bisexuality -- minority mental health; Self -- Periodicals; Identity (Psychology) -- Periodicals; Cognition -- Periodicals; Motivation (Psychology) -- Periodicals; 155.205
• DOI: 10.1080/15298868.2019.1625435
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1529-8868

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Bisexual individuals suffer poorer well-being than their gay and lesbian peers. The current work highlights the identity denial experiences of people who identify as gay, lesbian, and bisexual through self-reports and quantitative measures. Study 1 (N = 130) asked participants about unsupportive experiences during sexual identity disclosure and found that experiences of identity denial were more frequently reported by bisexual individuals compared to gay and lesbian peers. Study 2 (N = 202) examined the distinct relationship of identity denial experiences, above and beyond other prejudiced responses and discrimination, with well-being and self-concept outcomes. Results suggest identity denial is a frequent experience for bisexual individuals and is uniquely associated with lower psychological well-being and a less clear self-concept.