Should I Stay or Should I Go? Heterosexual Spouses in Mormon Mixed-orientation Marriages

• In Event: 308 - Section on Sociology of Sex and Gender Refereed Roundtable Session and Business Meeting
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: Table 10. Gender, Work and Family: Session III

Abstract

Abstract
Mixed-orientation marriages are defined as those where one spouse identifies as heterosexual and the other identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or experiences same-sex attraction. Members of conservative religions such as Mormonism may be particularly willing to enter a mixed-orientation marriage given the religion’s emphasis on traditional families and heteronormativity. Analyzing data from 31 in-depth interviews with three male and 28 female heterosexuals, we explore variations in the experiences of those who are or have been Mormon and in a mixed-orientation marriage, including demographic and relationship characteristics, levels of attraction, experiences with intimacy and extramarital sex, reasons for marrying, the circumstances of disclosure, experiences following disclosure, and current attitudes towards intimacy. We find that couples vary in their ability to cope with disclosure, and this is often in relation to their levels of religiosity and openness and willingness to communicate new strategies and needs.

Authors

• Nita Harker, Whatcom Community College

• Elizabeth Miklya Legerski, University of North Dakota