Bisexuals are people who experience romantic, physical, or emotional attraction to more than one gender. They may be attracted to men and women, to women and nonbinary people, or to men and transgender individuals. Some bisexuals identify as exclusively male or female, while others prefer fluid identities that do not fit within traditional binary categories. Bisexuality has long been stigmatized as being unnatural, immoral, or confused. This stigma can manifest itself through biphobia from heterosexual individuals who view bisexuality as a "fake" orientation or as a phase towards homosexuality. It also exists within LGBTQ+ communities, where some lesbians and gays feel threatened by bisexual competition for resources and attention.
Bisexual individuals face unique challenges due to their position between heterosexuality and homosexuality. These dual stigmas can have negative consequences for mental health.
One study found that bisexual women report higher rates of depression and anxiety than either heterosexual or lesbian women. The authors suggest that this may be related to bisexuals' greater exposure to discrimination and social rejection. In addition, bisexual women may find it harder to form secure relationships with other women because of societal assumptions that they are promiscuous or unfaithful. Bisexual men may face similar difficulties in both straight and gay contexts, experiencing pressure to conform to masculine norms and fearing discrimination if they do not. Research has also linked sexual minority stress - the stress associated with being a member of an oppressed group - to increased risk of suicide among bisexual people.
Another issue is internalized biphobia, which occurs when bisexual individuals accept negative attitudes about themselves and begin to identify with them. This can lead to low self-esteem, negative body image, and feelings of shame and isolation. Some bisexuals even try to suppress their identity out of fear of rejection from family, friends, or romantic partners. This can exacerbate existing mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.
There are many ways to promote psychological wellbeing among bisexual individuals. LGBTQ+ communities can work to challenge biphobia within their own ranks by recognizing bisexual identities and experiences. Mental health professionals can provide affirmative therapy that validates bisexual identities and addresses issues specific to them. And bisexual individuals can seek support groups and resources that validate their experiences and help them build resilience against stigma and discrimination.
How does the dual stigma experienced by bisexual individuals in both heterosexual and LGBTQ+ contexts affect their psychological wellbeing?
Bisexual individuals are often faced with a unique form of double discrimination that can lead to significant mental health challenges. The intersection between sexual orientation and gender identity can result in them being rejected by both heterosexuals and gay and lesbian communities, leaving them feeling isolated and alone. This can contribute to feelings of shame, guilt, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.