Which Sexuality? Which Service?: Bisexual Young People's Experiences with Youth, Queer and Mental Health Services in Australia

This qualitative study explored the mental health of Australian bisexual-identifying and/or behaving adolescents and young people. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 adolescents and young adults, and 15 youth health/community service providers. The health implications of misrepresentation, marginal-ization, and exclusion from a heteronormative society, including adolescent health research and health services, along with homonormative gay and lesbian communities are addressed. Recommendations by counselors/community workers who work with bisexual youth are discussed. The researchers document the need for bi-specific youth research and health promotion resources, as well as more inclusive organizational policies, programs and practices in order to address the issues of invisibilization and inadequate representation that lead to a range of mental, social, and sexual health concerns.