Subjective Sexual Experiences of Behaviorally Bisexual Men: Attraction, Behaviors, and Condom Use

Introduction: Research concerning behaviorally bisexual men continues to focus on understanding sexual risk in a narrow range of sexual behaviors. Few studies have attempted to understand not only the objective risk behaviors in which these men engage in but also the patterns and meanings of these behaviors, particularly in relation to gender of their partners. Understanding behaviorally bisexual men's subjective experiences of their behaviors could be useful for developing culturally congruent sexual health interventions for these men. Methods: In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 75 men (25 Black, 25 White, 25 Latino) who engaged in bisexual behavior within the past six months. Men were asked a wide range of questions concerning their subjective experiences of recent sexual behaviors with female, male, and transgender partners. Results: Findings suggest adherence to normative gender roles, attraction to individuals conforming to these stereotypes, and segregation of sexual behaviors along gendered lines. Overall, condom use was influenced by perceptions of potential negative consequences with male and female partners. Conclusions: The findings suggest that public health researchers should continue to examine the subjective meanings and motivations associated with bisexual men's risk behaviors in order to seek risk behaviors they are trying to change.