Investigating Risk and Protective Factors for Suicidal Ideation and Attempts in Bi+ Youth

A Multi-Method Study

Bibliographic Data

ID24230693
AuthorsLarissa Totic (0009-0000-4360-7011, University of Groningen), Laura Baams (0000-0001-5224-3694, University of Groningen), Katherine Ann Clark (0000-0002-9626-8460, Vanderbilt University), Henny Bos (0000-0003-0559-6088, University of Amsterdam), John De Wit (0000-0002-5895-7935, Utrecht University), Diana D Van Bergen (0000-0002-0068-5228, University of Groningen)
Year2026
Pages1-32
Publication date2026-10-13
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Bisexuality (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1529-9716 • E-ISSN: 1529-9724
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/15299716.2026.2731622
OpenAlexW7221603466
LanguageEN
References cited75

Bi+ youth face unique forms of minority stress, yet little is known about how these relate to their high rates of suicidality. This multi-method study takes an exploratory approach to examine risk and protective factors linked to suicidal ideation and attempts among bi+ youth. Quantitative survey data came from Dutch bi+ youth aged 16–22 (M age = 18.71, SD = 1.83). We conducted logistic regression on lifetime suicidal ideation (N = 1,275) and attempts (N = 1,274), including risk and protective factors, as well as interaction effects between sexual orientation, gender identity, and risk/protective factors. To contextualize the quantitative findings, 15 interviews with bi+ youth with a history of suicidality were conducted and thematically analyzed. Quantitatively, stigmatization and binegativity-related prejudice were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of lifetime suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Social support, support-seeking coping, and resilience were linked with lower suicidal ideation. The association between erasure and suicidality varied by sexual identity. Qualitatively, stigmatization and binegativity-related prejudice involved peers perceiving bi+ youth as ‘strange,’ sexualizing their identities, and assuming incapability of having stable relationships. Findings highlight the need for inclusive mental health interventions that address experiences of bi+ youth and improve protective factors, including social support, coping strategies, and resilience.

bisexual identity · bisexual youth · protective factors · Risk factors · Suicidal ideation · suicide attempts · youth mental health · Bipolar Disorder and Treatment · LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy · Suicide and Self-Harm Studies

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