Mapping bisexual studies: Past and present, and implications for the future

Abstract

This chapter begins with an examination of bisexuality studies from the perspective of some prominent sex researchers from the late nineteenth century through the mid-twentieth century with a focus on how bisexuality was conceptualized by Richard von Krafft-Ebing, Havelock Ellis, Sigmund Freud, and Alfred Kinsey. Next, the chapter turns to a discussion and analysis of current research on bisexuality, identifying some recurring themes in the body of research such as bisexual identity development, life course changes in identity, attitudes about bisexuality, and debates about definitions and terms related to bisexuality in addition to what research into health and social disparities reveals about how bisexuality is framed and studied. This chapter then turns to an analysis of how bisexuality is taught within the academy, particularly in comparison to lesbian, gay, and queer studies. Finally, this chapter concludes with mapping the future of bisexuality studies with emphases on not only making bisexuality more visible but also focusing on physical and mental health aspects in addition to social and sexual justice issues.