The term "bisexual" refers to individuals who are attracted romantically, physically, and/or emotionally to both men and women. This means that their attraction is not limited to just one gender but includes people from all genders. Bisexuals can be male or female, transgender, cisgender, nonbinary, agender, intersex, androgynous, queer, questioning, pansexual, polysexual, and omnisexual. They may experience attraction for different genders simultaneously and sometimes separately. Their desires do not conform to a binary system of gender identity. In this context, bisexuality challenges traditional ideas about gender roles and expectations.
Bisexuals face dual marginalization, which means they are discriminated against by both heterosexuals and homosexuals. As such, they often feel like outcasts within LGBTQ+ communities as well as outside them. Due to this stigma, they are less likely to come out openly and publicly identify themselves as bisexual because it increases social risks. Bisexuals report feeling invisible in society, misunderstood, and stereotyped. They fear being labeled promiscuous, confused, or indecisive. Bisexuals also experience higher rates of sexual assault, depression, anxiety, self-harm, addiction, abuse, and mental health problems than other groups.
The psychological costs of bisexual experience reflect the complexities of identity formation, personal growth, intimacy, and relationships with others. Bi individuals struggle with questions of authenticity, visibility, belonging, acceptance, validation, trust, safety, and vulnerability. Being bisexual is often associated with negative stereotypes, leading to internalized shame and guilt. This can cause them to hide their true selves from friends, family, partners, employers, coworkers, and acquaintances. Many bisexuals struggle to find love or build meaningful connections due to societal prejudice. This reinforces feelings of isolation, hopelessness, and despair.
Bisexuals may be rejected or excluded by potential romantic partners who view them as unstable or untrustworthy. They may be dismissed as "cheaters" or "fence sitters." Some bisexuals engage in behavior that seems contradictory, like dating one person at a time while flirting with another. Others may not feel safe sharing all aspects of their sexuality with loved ones. These behaviors indicate an attempt to navigate dual marginalization without compromising their own sense of self.
This strategy creates tension between personal desires and social expectations, resulting in emotional turmoil.
Bisexuals face challenges unique to their situation such as limited representation and support. Bi individuals are less likely to see themselves reflected in media or cultural narratives. They must contend with limited access to healthcare, mental health resources, and advocacy efforts. This lack of recognition can lead to confusion about identity development, coping strategies, and relationship dynamics. Bisexuals often feel isolated within both straight and LGBTQ+ communities, feeling neither fully accepted nor understood. In turn, they may experience loneliness, rejection, and alienation.
The psychological costs of bisexual experience include lower self-esteem, poorer relationships, and diminished well-being. As such, it is essential for society to recognize the unique needs of bisexuals and provide resources to address these issues. This includes increased visibility, representation, education, research, and support. It also means recognizing that bisexuality is a valid and natural form of human sexuality that should be respected and celebrated. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive world where all people feel seen, heard, valued, and loved.
How does bisexual experience illustrate the psychological costs of dual marginalization?
Bisexual individuals often experience double discrimination both from heterosexuals and homosexuals, which can lead to various psychological costs such as social isolation, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. This is because they are not fully accepted by either sexual orientation group due to their ambiguous identity. As a result, bisexuals may feel confused about their place in society and struggle with feelings of belongingness.