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Madisyn J. Roberts is a 2025 graduate of the PhD program in Counselor Education & Supervision at Antioch University, Seattle.

Dissertation Committee:

Shawn Patrick, EdD, Committee Chair

Stephen Southern, EdD, Committee Member

Najla Hrustanovic , PhD, Committee Member

Keywords

bisexuality, biphobia, heterosexism, Queer theory, Intersectionality

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

This dissertation explores the lived experiences of self-identified bisexual adults through a qualitative, narrative inquiry approach that centers how folx construct their story of sexuality and individual meaning making capacities based on held intersections of identity. Using Queer theory and intersectionality as a theoretical framework, this study investigates and advocates that sexual orientation is not validated or invalidated by its fluidity but aims to understand how bisexuality is an integrative part of an individual’s identity. This dissertation explores how society’s tendency to view sexuality as divided between heterosexuality and homosexuality erases the complexity and spectrum of sexual orientations that exist beyond these binary categories. Biphobia, invisibility, and discrimination are subtle, yet powerful tools used to uphold heteronormativity, which then limits the understanding of the full spectrum of sexuality. This narrative inquiry consisted of 10 participants. The six major themes that emerged from this data included: the Fluidity of Bisexuality, Gendered Impact on Bisexuality, Intersections of Identity and Meaning-Making, Biphobia, Relational Impact, and Sense of Not “Enough.” The subthemes were categorized as Invisibility and Acceptance. This research cites storytelling as a powerful modality for healing, allowing individuals to reclaim their narratives, build community, and resist systems of oppression. The findings will contribute to a growing body of literature that advocates for greater recognition of bisexual identities at the micro, macro, and meso levels. This iv study affirms the necessity of centering bisexual voices in conversations around sexual identity, mental health, and liberation. This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu) and OhioLINK ETD Center (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).

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Madisyn J. Roberts, PhD, 2025

ORCID Scholar No. 0009-0006-8076-0908

Madisyn Roberts, PhD, LMHC, CST (she/her) is a Seattle-based licensed mental health counselor, AASECT-certified sex therapist, educator, and researcher. She earned her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Antioch University, where her dissertation explored meaning-making and identity construction among bisexual adults. Madisyn's work centers LGBTQIA+ identity development, sexuality, and Intersectionality, with a focus on Queer-affirming, sex-positive, and liberation-based practices. She is passionate about bridging academic research and community impact through clinical work, education, and advocacy.

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