Factors influencing bisexual men to marry heterosexual women: A case study of Malaysia

In Malaysia, bisexuality is considered taboo because it is against the values and norms of society. Bisexual men may attempt to integrate by entering the institution of marriage with their partners. This study aims to discuss the factors that encourage bisexual men to choose to marry heterosexual women. A total of 15 informants consisting of bisexual men who had been married to women for more than five years were interviewed in depth. The results of the study are divided into two main themes: internal and external factors. The internal factors include (i) love for their partner; (ii) the desire to have children; iii) wanting to eradicate the “homosexuality" inside themselves; and (iv) religious motivation. Meanwhile, the external factors include (i) family pressure; and (ii) the spouse's insistence. Overall, this study is highly relevant to the field because it provides significant input to enhance the understanding of the phenomenon of bisexual men who marry heterosexual women, especially in Malaysia, to avoid threats and discrimination against them. In addition, the results could be used by certain parties―such as individuals, social support centers, and the government―when addressing issues related to this phenomenon in the future.