The Changing Dynamics of Bisexual Men's Lives Social Research Perspectives

This important book provides unique new knowledge on the lived experience of openly bisexual men without medicalizing or pathologizing them. Presenting research from sexology, sociology, and psychology, it features extensive findings on the sexual, social, romantic, and emotional behaviors of the 90 men interviewed in the U.S. and U.K. Issues and challenges are examined in such areas as identity and self-concept, along with the burden of social erasure and the paradox of stigma from both the gay and straight communities. However, the research reveals evidence of a recent cultural transition toward acceptance of bisexual identity and behavior, with younger bisexual men experiencing better social lives and increased recognition of the legitimacy of bisexuality. 

Among the topics covered: 

Bringing clarity and focus beyond the gender binary—and compelling insights into why society and science have trouble shedding that paradigm—The Changing Dynamics of Bisexual Men’s Lives will interest sexuality scholars, sexologists, and social scientists studying the social aspects of sexuality. 

Dr. Eric Anderson is Professor of Sport, Masculinities & Sexualities at the University of Winchester. He has published 14 books, over 50 peer-reviewed articles, and is recognized for research excellence by the British Academy of Social Sciences. He is a fellow of the International Academy of Sex Research, and is regularly featured in international television, print and digital media. 

His work shows a decline in cultural homohysteria leading to a softening of heterosexual masculinities. This permits heterosexual men to kiss, cuddle and love one another; and promotes inclusive attitudes toward openly gay athletes and the recognition of bisexuality. His sexuality work finds positive aspects of non-monogamous relationships and explores the function and benefits of cheating. 

Professor Anderson is also trustee of the Sport Collision Injury Collective, which is committed to examining and removing negative outcomes of participation in contact sports. He also writes about sport psychology, distance running, and the social problems of organized team sports. 

Dr. Mark McCormack is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology at Durham University, and Co-Director of its Centre for Sex, Gender and Sexualities. His research examines how decreasing homophobia has affected the gender identities of heterosexual male youth, and how this influences their attitudes, social practices and use of technology. He is author of The Declining Significance of Homophobia, published with Oxford University Press in 2012, and he has published on these topics in journals including Sex Roles, British Journal of Sociology and Journal of Adolescent Research. He also examines the changing nature of sexual identities and sexual practices, including kinky sex and pornography consumption, and has published on these issues in Archives of Sexual Behavior, Sociology and Journal of Bisexuality.