Abstract
This paper reports on findings from a qualitative study into the lived experience of bisexual women in monogamous relationships. Nineteen self-identified bisexual women from across the UK, who were either in a monogamous relationship or desired to be in one, were explored. Participants completed diaries and took part in telephone interviews. The data was analysed using Template Analysis (King, 2004) which identified themes from the data set. It appeared that women in different-gender relationships choose appearance markers that could be classed as lesbian orientated in a bid to illuminate their bisexuality. Women in same-gender relationships were more likely to opt for feminine appearance signifiers in a
bid to avoid being identified as a lesbian based solely on their appearance. The study suggests that the gender of participants’ partners matters with regards to their appearance decisions. However, despite the apparent influence of their partner’s gender, bisexual women demonstrated a degree of flexibility and fluidity in their appearance choices.
bid to avoid being identified as a lesbian based solely on their appearance. The study suggests that the gender of participants’ partners matters with regards to their appearance decisions. However, despite the apparent influence of their partner’s gender, bisexual women demonstrated a degree of flexibility and fluidity in their appearance choices.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 257-277 |
Number of pages | 21 |
Journal | Journal of Bisexuality |
Volume | 18 |
Issue number | 3 |
Early online date | 5 Sep 2018 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 5 Sep 2018 |
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Sarah Jane Daly
- School of Human and Health Sciences
- Department of Social and Psychological Sciences - Senior Lecturer in Social Psychology
Person: Academic