I will discuss how bisexual people are marginalized due to the persistent erasure of their identities in mainstream public health discourse and education. I will explore the detrimental effects of this erasure on mental health, including increased risk of depression, anxiety, and self-harm. By examining the history of bisexual invisibility, I will show how this erasure is a symptom of broader societal oppression based on gender and sexual orientation. The article will also delve into the impact of bisexual erasure on LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy efforts.
I will suggest solutions for tackling bisexual erasure and promoting inclusive representation in public health and education.
Bisexual Invisibility and Mental Health Impact
For decades, society has erased bisexual identity from public discourse, leading to widespread misconceptions about bisexuality and the people who identify as such. This erasure contributes to negative stereotypes that bisexuals are untrustworthy or indecisive, making it difficult for them to build intimate relationships with others.
Research shows that bisexual individuals are more likely than heterosexual or gay/lesbian counterparts to experience rejection, stigma, and discrimination in romantic and sexual relationships (Chivers et al., 2016). These experiences can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and low self-esteem, which in turn increase the likelihood of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation (Savin-Williams et al., 2005). In addition, bisexual individuals may struggle to access support services designed for the LGBTQ+ community because they do not fit neatly into established categories (Coleman & Rosser, 2018). This can exacerbate mental health challenges by preventing individuals from seeking help when needed.
Historical Roots of Bisexual Erasure
The erasure of bisexual identities is rooted in societal norms that value only binary gender roles and sexual orientations. Binary gender roles emphasize rigid masculinity and femininity, with little room for non-binary or fluid expression. Similarly, monosexism promotes the idea that there are only two valid sexual orientations - heterosexuality and homosexuality - ignoring the existence of other identities like pansexuality, asexuality, and polysexuality. By failing to acknowledge these identities, mainstream culture perpetuates a narrow view of sexuality that excludes anyone who does not conform. As a result, many people remain unaware of the realities of bisexual identity, leading to widespread misconceptions and stereotypes that further marginalize this group.
Impact on LGBTQ+ Rights and Advocacy
Bisexual erasure also has broader implications for the LGBTQ+ movement as a whole. When bisexuals are denied recognition, their struggles and experiences are silenced, making it difficult to advocate for their rights and needs.
Bisexual women face higher rates of intimate partner violence than their lesbian counterparts due to negative attitudes towards bisexuality (Fredriksen-Goldsen et al., 2013). Yet, their stories are often left out of mainstream conversations about domestic violence, leaving them without access to support services designed for victims. Similarly, bisexual men experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse than straight or gay men (Meyer & Dean, 2008), yet their mental health needs may be overlooked in public health campaigns. These gaps create barriers to achieving true equality and inclusion for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Solutions for Tackling Bisexual Erasure
To address bisexual erasure and promote inclusive representation, we need systemic changes that recognize and validate diverse identities. This can include expanding education curricula to include bisexual history, culture, and experiences. It can also mean creating more spaces for dialogue between people with different sexual orientations, challenging stereotypes and assumptions along the way.
We must hold institutions accountable for erasing bi+ identities by pushing for policies that recognize and affirm these identities. By doing so, we can create a society where everyone feels safe, seen, and valued, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender expression.
Persistent erasure of bisexual identity has significant implications for mental health, rights advocacy, and overall well-being. By examining the historical roots of this erasure, we can better understand how it perpetuates societal oppression based on gender and sexuality. By exploring solutions, we can work towards a more equitable future where all individuals are valued and included.
What are the mental health implications of persistent erasure of bisexual identity in public health discourse and education?
In recent years, there has been an increasing awareness of the prevalence of bisexuality among individuals in Western countries, with estimates suggesting that up to 10% of men and women identify as bisexual (Bogaert et al. , 2019). Despite this recognition, however, bisexual identities continue to be marginalized and stereotyped within popular culture and mainstream society.