Date of Award

12-1999

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Lester W. Wright

Second Advisor

Dr. C. Richard Spates

Third Advisor

Dr. Mary Z. Anderson

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

Sexual orientation is generally assessed as a dichotomous variable, rather than a continuous variable. According to this classification the concept of bisexuality does not exist and there is a dearth of research for the construct. Some theorists believe that this lack of knowledge has led to fear and discrimination of bisexual individuals (Ochs, 1996; Rust, 1993). Biphobia, defined as negative attitudes about bisexuality and bisexual individuals, is a psychological construct that is not well understood. There has been a recent resurgence of interest in bisexuality and biphobia but there are currently limited empirical investigations examining the constructs. And, no scale exists that measures the construct of bi phobia in a comprehensive manner.

A new 30-item instrument, the Biphobia Scale, was developed to measure negative cognitions, affect, and behaviors regarding bisexuality and bisexual individuals. The instrument has provided empirical evidence of the existence of the construct of biphobia and has demonstrated that it exists in both the heterosexual and homosexual communities. The Biphobia Scale has demonstrated strong internal consistency and test-retest reliability. The scale was demonstrated to have a strong correlation with a measure of homophobia in the heterosexual population, but a weak correlation in the homosexual population.

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