Bisexuality is an identity that has become more visible in recent years, but it still presents unique challenges to traditional understandings of fidelity, commitment, and relational responsibility. In this article, I will explore how bisexuality complicates these concepts and offer some possible solutions for individuals and couples navigating them.
Let's define what we mean when we talk about fidelity, commitment, and relational responsibility. Fidelity refers to staying true to your partner, committing yourself to them exclusively, and being loyal throughout the relationship. Commitment involves making a long-term commitment to the relationship and working through difficult times together. Relational responsibility refers to taking care of the relationship and maintaining its health and happiness. These are all important values in many romantic relationships, but they can be complicated when one or both partners identify as bisexual.
If a couple decides to remain monogamous, the bisexual person may find themselves feeling tempted by someone outside of the relationship. This can create feelings of guilt, shame, and fear of infidelity. Alternatively, if the couple chooses an open relationship, the bisexual person may feel like they are betraying their partner by exploring other sexual and romantic connections. Both situations present challenges to traditional ethical frameworks surrounding fidelity.
Commitment can also be challenging for bisexual people in relationships. When one partner identifies as heterosexual or homosexual while the other is bisexual, there may be different levels of desire and commitment to the relationship. The bisexual partner may feel pressure to "pick" between their partner and potential new partners, which can lead to resentment and confusion. Similarly, the non-bisexual partner may feel jealousy or insecurity around the bisexual partner's attraction to others.
Relational responsibility can be complicated because bisexual individuals often have different needs and desires than their partners.
A bisexual woman who prefers women may struggle with the idea of being in a relationship with a man, even though she loves him deeply. Or a bisexual man may crave emotional intimacy from his male friends that he cannot get from his female partner. These differences can strain a relationship and make it difficult to maintain healthy communication and support for each other.
So how do we navigate these complexities? First, it's important to remember that all relationships are unique, and what works for some couples may not work for others. Communication is key - both partners should be willing to talk openly about their feelings and desires, and come up with solutions that work for them. Bisexual individuals may need more flexibility in terms of sexual expression, while their partners may need reassurance and security. It's also crucial to recognize that bisexuality is valid and natural, and shouldn't be dismissed or stigmatized.
Bisexuality complicates traditional ethical frameworks surrounding fidelity, commitment, and relational responsibility.
With openness, honesty, and understanding, couples can find ways to accommodate this identity and build strong, fulfilling relationships together.
How does bisexuality complicate traditional ethical frameworks surrounding fidelity, commitment, and relational responsibility?
Bisexuality can complicate traditional ethical frameworks surrounding fidelity, commitment, and relational responsibility by introducing new considerations that may not be present in monosexual relationships. Bisexual individuals may experience sexual attraction towards people of more than one gender, which can lead to feelings of confusion, guilt, and self-doubt about their identity and relationships.