Born and raised in the boondocks': Bisexual men's experiences reared in rural areas

Abstract

This qualitative study addresses two gaps in knowledge of sexual minority identity development: (a) identity development of bisexual men and (b) the unique needs of bisexual men raised in rural environments. The researchers employed a multiple case study methodology, which allowed for contextual understandings of the lived experiences of rural bisexual men. A rural sample gives voice to the different needs, challenges, and resiliency factors of individuals raised in a rural setting. Current research on identity development and rural health outcomes are discussed, while topics such as biphobia and bisexual invisibility are also introduced and explained. These characteristics were chosen because of their emphasis on the social aspects of behavior and overall orientation toward social change. Data points include individual interviews on identity development, artefactual analysis, relational influence maps, and closing reflective interviews. Findings included themes in four primary areas: (a) understanding rurality; (b) relational factors of identity development; (c) controlling images; (d) community resources. These findings are applied to potential counseling interventions, advocacy efforts, and community resource development.