There has been an increased awareness about the prevalence and significance of bisexual individuals in society. Bisexuals are people who experience attraction to more than one gender, often simultaneously. This term may be used interchangeably with pansexual, queer, fluid, omnisexual, polysexual, ambi-sexual, multisexual, nonmonosexual, and others. Studies show that around 2% of adult men and women identify as bisexual. Despite the increasing visibility of this population, many educational institutions do not cater adequately for them. In fact, they often face discrimination based on their identity, which affects their psychosocial growth and sense of safety.
Impact on Academic Performance
Many schools lack resources specifically designed for bisexual students, resulting in poor academic performance.
Sexuality education programs rarely address bisexuality explicitly or provide information about it. As a result, these young people might feel uncomfortable asking questions or seeking help because they fear judgment from peers, teachers, parents, etc. Without proper support, they cannot reach their full potential in school, which is crucial to achieving future success. Similarly, college campuses fail to acknowledge biphobia (anti-bisexual bias), leading to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
Some instructors refuse to use appropriate pronouns when referring to them, causing discomfort and confusion. Thus, bisexual students must navigate hostile environments while trying to succeed academically.
Sense of Identity Safety
Many colleges have few clubs or organizations geared towards bisexuals, leaving them feeling isolated and excluded. They may be the only person in their classroom who identifies as such, making them vulnerable to bullying and harassment by other students. This can lead to low self-esteem, decreased confidence, and difficulty forming relationships with others, particularly those outside the LGBTQIA+ community.
Some educational institutions offer safe spaces where bisexual individuals can meet and share experiences without fear of being judged. Still, there are not enough of these places, especially on high school campuses. Hence, many bisexuals struggle to express themselves openly due to shame, stigma, or embarrassment. Some may even conceal their identity out of fear that revealing it could jeopardize their job prospects or social status. As a result, they feel less secure about their sexuality, resulting in emotional distress and poor psychological well-being.
Schools need to make significant changes to create an inclusive environment for bisexual people. They should implement policies against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender expression and provide adequate support systems like counseling services and affinity groups. Educators should also receive training on how to interact respectfully with bisexual students to help them thrive academically and socially. Only then will we see improved academic performance, stronger sense of identity safety, increased self-confidence, and enhanced mental health among this marginalized population.
How do educational institutions impact bisexual students' psychosocial growth and sense of identity safety?
Educational institutions can have both positive and negative effects on bisexual students' psychosocial development and sense of identity safety. On one hand, these environments provide opportunities for learning and socialization that can contribute to personal growth and exploration of one's sexual orientation. This could include access to resources and support groups that normalize bisexuality and validate student identities.