‘Bears’ more likely to suffer from low self-esteem and engage in risky sex, study finds
By Will Stroude
A research paper published in the Clinical Journal of Nursing has found that ‘bears’ are more likely to suffer from low self-esteem because of their body image and the expectations held in the gay community.
Gay Star News reports that the paper reviewed eleven research studies that focused on ‘bear’ subculture in America and explains that a higher BMI is important for men who “identify as bears.”
“It helps them to recognize one another, strengthen communal bonds and promote a gay identity that is masculine, sexual and mature.”
But the higher BMI led to ‘bears’ suffering from discrimination by heterosexuals and homosexuals as the article states that gay men are often perceived to be the opposite of ‘bears’ who are known to be bigger and hairier than the rest of the gay community.
“Perpetuating this perception of low self-esteem is the stereotypical image of a gay man who is usually young, slim and smooth-skinned, an image which many men who identify as bears do not fit.”
‘Bears’ are also more likely to participate in risky sex including unprotected anal sex, fisting, asphyxiation, voyeurism and exhibition. The paper states that ‘bears’ get tested for STIs more often than other gay groups because of their engagement in riskier sex.
However the ‘bear’ community proves to be positive for its members and the paper says it offers “a sanctuary for these men as a buffer against discrimination” as well as a sense of belonging that is lacking in the overall gay community.
The paper was researched by Associate professor Joseph De Santis and PHD nursing student Narciso Quidley-Rodriguez.
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