Bisexuals Are Just Greedy!: Developing the Bisexual Myths Scale and Testing Its Preliminary Psychometrics in Heterosexual and Bisexual Plus Samples

Abstract

IntroductionBisexual myths refer to misconceptions, prejudices, and stereotypes about bisexuality and the relationships of bisexual+ (bi+) individuals. Research on these myths has been limited, partly due to the absence of a measurement tool. This study aimed to develop and validate the Bisexual Myths Scale (Bisex-M), a standardized instrument for assessing both bisexual myths held by heterosexual individuals and internalized bisexual myths among bisexual individuals.MethodsAcross three independent studies, we evaluated the psychometric properties of the Bisex-M. Study 1 used a predominantly heterosexual sample to conduct an exploratory factor analysis. Studies 2 and 3, using heterosexual and bisexual samples respectively, tested the factor structure through confirmatory factor analyses and examined concurrent validity indicators.ResultsIn Study 1, exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure consisting of Bisexual Identity (nine items, eigenvalue = 8.995; 59.97% variance) and Bisexual Relationships (six items, eigenvalue = 1.536; 10.24% variance). Participants who had bisexual acquaintances endorsed fewer myths, while religiosity, conservatism, and negative attitudes toward gay and lesbian individuals were positively associated with myth endorsement. The two-factor structure was confirmed in Study 2 using a primarily heterosexual sample and again in Study 3 using an entirely bisexual sample. In Study 3, higher levels of internalized bisexual myths were also associated with increased psychological intimate partner violence perpetration.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that the Bisex-M is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring both externally held bisexual myths within heterosexual samples and internalized bisexual myths among bisexual individuals. The scale demonstrated consistent psychometric strength across diverse samples.Policy ImplicationsThe Bisex-M provides researchers, clinicians, and educators with a practical tool for identifying and addressing myth-related biases. Its use may support interventions aimed at reducing bisexual stigma and inform policies that promote the social and relational well-being of bi+ populations.