The research report As if you have no boundaries sheds new light on bi+ women's experiences of sexual violence. It shows how harmful stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination and lack of recognition contribute to the vulnerable position of bi+ women. The study also offers concrete recommendations for professionals to recognise and prevent sexual violence and sexually transgressive behaviour.
The research report As if you have no boundaries sheds new light on bi+ women's experiences of sexual violence. It shows how harmful stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination and lack of recognition contribute to the vulnerable position of bi+ women. The study also offers concrete recommendations for professionals to recognise and prevent sexual violence and sexually transgressive behaviour.
Why are bi+ women at extra risk for sexual violence?
Bi+ women face a unique combination of sexism, the heterosexual norm and the monosexual norm. These three forms of exclusion reinforce each other and lead to triple marginalisation. For instance, bi+ women's sexual orientation is still often not taken seriously, and they face hypersexualisation. This makes bi+ women especially vulnerable to sexual violence:
The triple marginalisation can damage bi+ women's self-confidence, and thus their resilience.
Stereotypes and prejudice lead to specific forms of violence. Such as having to "prove" you are bi by having sex with someone.
Marginalisation makes it extra difficult to ask for and find adequate help. For example, because social workers do not always have sufficient knowledge about possible links between sexual orientation and sexual violence.
Recommendations for professionals in policy and practice
The study makes concrete recommendations to professionals working in care, education, policy and counselling:
Recognise the specific vulnerability of bi+ women to sexual violence and transgressive behaviour. Invest in knowledge and training to better understand and support this target group, focusing on specific groups such as bi+ women of colour and non-monogamous bi+ women.
Make knowledge products and education bi+ inclusive by using examples of diverse bi+ people and relationships, actively breaking stereotypes and being mindful of bi+ women's unique experiences.
Make bi+ inclusion work: actively challenge assumptions about bi+ people and speak positively about sexual diversity.
Take the quiz and learn how bi+ people can face sexual violence and sexually transgressive behaviour.
