Predictive Factors of Identity Disclosure and Subsequent Negative Outcome Discrepancies in Lesbian/Gay and Bisexual Individuals

Abstract

The bisexual community remains understudied and underrepresented even within the LGBT community. This paper seeks to build upon existing literature to explore the underlying factors that explain why bisexual individuals experience more negative outcomes across a variety of work and life domains compared to gay and lesbian individuals. Specifically, across two studies, we expected that bisexual individuals would demonstrate lower disclosure levels than gay and lesbian individuals, and that bisexual individuals would experience more negative outcomes than gay and lesbian individuals as a function of these disclosure differences. In addition, we predicted that perceived supportiveness of the workplace would moderate the extent to which bisexual individuals viewed their sexual identities as positive and as central, which would then influence their disclosure behaviors and subsequent outcomes. By explaining the process through which bisexual individuals internalize stigma and conceal their identities, future research might better equip employers and clinicians to more effectively remediate the negative outcomes faced by this group. In doing so, we can begin to address bisexual disparities and generate a more supportive, cohesive community for this underrepresented group.