1 - (SYM 107) A Qualitative Analysis of Responses to Discrimination Among Bisexual, Pansexual, and Queer Male Youth

Sexual minority (SM) youth are subject to identity-based discrimination, which can have a range of intrapersonal consequences (e.g., internalization and anticipation of stigma). Prior research has identified strategies that SM youth use to cope with discrimination, some of which may be more protective (e.g., support seeking) than others (e.g., identity concealment). However, little is known about responses to discrimination among bisexual, pansexual, and queer (bi+) male youth. Given that (a) bi+ identification continues to increase among youth, (b) bi+ youth are subject to unique forms of discrimination, and (c) bi+ youth demonstrate elevated rates of psychopathology compared to their monosexual peers, it is critical to understand responses to discrimination in this population to inform intervention efforts. As such, the goal of the current study was to characterize the range of responses to discrimination among bi+ male youth and explore heterogeneity based on other minoritized identities.

Fifty-eight bi+ male youth ages 14-17 completed a survey and an interview. Most identified as bisexual (63%), followed by pansexual (28%) and queer (9%). Participants were racially/ethnically diverse (61% youth of color) and included cisgender (77%) and transgender (23%) youth. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed.

Bi+ male youth responded to discrimination in a variety of ways. Similar to other SM youth, they described proximal minority stress reactions (e.g., anticipating future discrimination, concealing their identity), and coping by engaging in advocacy and utilizing mental healthcare (especially for transgender youth). They also described unique responses to discrimination, including internalizing negative attitudes towards bi+ identities (e.g., questioning whether they were really attracted to multiple genders) and minimizing their own discriminatory experiences when comparing them to those of other SM youth. Finally, some participants described experiences that reflected discrimination, but denied experiencing discrimination, suggesting a lack of awareness or defensive avoidance. 

In sum, bi+ male youth are subject to discrimination during a sensitive developmental period. How they conceptualize and respond to discrimination likely has important consequences for wellbeing. Clinicians are encouraged to attend to the unique response strategies bi+ male youth employ in the face of discrimination, and help them identify adaptive coping strategies to promote wellbeing.