International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 3 (May-June 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of June to publish your research paper in the issue of May-June.

A Qualitative Study on Identity Invalidation, Familial Expectations, and Mental Health among Bisexual College Students in India

Author(s) Ms. Firdaus Farzana Khan, Prof. VIMALA M ARUN
Country India
Abstract This study explores the experiences of bisexual college students in India, focusing on identity invalidation, family expectations, and mental health. A qualitative phenomenological approach was used to understand participants’ lived experiences in depth. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with bisexual college students aged 18–25 years using purposive and snowball sampling. The interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common patterns and shared experiences.

The findings showed that many participants experienced identity invalidation from family members, peers, and society, along with pressure to follow traditional heterosexual expectations. These experiences often led to emotional distress, confusion, and difficulties in expressing their identities openly. At the same time, participants showed resilience by using coping strategies such as seeking support from friends, selectively sharing their identity, and finding safe and accepting spaces.

Overall, this study highlights the importance of creating more inclusive and supportive environments for bisexual students. It emphasizes the need for greater awareness, family understanding, and access to LGBTQ-affirmative mental health support within educational and social settings in India.
Keywords Bisexuality, Identity Invalidation, Familial Expectations, Mental Health, LGBTQ+ Students, Thematic Analysis, Qualitative Research, India
Published In Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On 2026-05-02

Share this