Bisexual individuals are people who identify themselves with romantic, emotional, and/or sexual attraction to more than one gender. They may be attracted to different genders simultaneously, cyclically, or exclusively. Bisexuality can be expressed through a variety of identities such as pansexuality, queer, omnisexuality, and others.
I will discuss how bisexuals experience and navigate relational complexity in both monogamous and polyamorous contexts. First, let's look at what relational complexity is. Relational complexity refers to the degree of interdependence between partners in a relationship, which includes emotional, physical, and psychological aspects. It is influenced by factors such as communication styles, individual needs and preferences, personal histories, cultural norms, and external pressures.
When it comes to monogamy, the relational complexity for bisexuals may be higher compared to those who are heterosexual or homosexual. Monogamy requires exclusive devotion to one partner, while bisexuals may have multiple attractions towards people of different genders. This can create confusion and difficulty in navigating relationships.
A bisexual person may feel guilty about their feelings towards someone else when they are already committed to a relationship, which leads to secrecy and dishonesty.
Some bisexuals may struggle with finding a compatible partner that satisfies all of their needs and desires, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction.
Polyamory offers more flexibility and freedom for bisexual individuals. Polyamory involves having multiple romantic and/or sexual partners at the same time, which allows bisexuals to explore their attraction to different genders without compromising their primary relationship.
Managing multiple relationships can also bring its own set of challenges, including jealousy, trust issues, and schedule coordination.
Bisexuals may experience stigma and discrimination from both heterosexual and LGBTQ+ communities due to stereotypes and misconceptions. Bisexuals are often perceived as promiscuous or confused about their identity, leading to rejection and exclusion. They may face pressure to choose one side or hide their sexuality altogether, which adds to the relational complexities.
How do bisexual individuals experience and navigate relational complexity in both monogamous and polyamorous contexts?
Bisexual people are generally perceived as having two distinct sexual orientations; however, they may not always identify with this label. Therefore, their experiences of navigating relationships can be unique and complex. Monogamy is typically seen as a normative expectation for heterosexual couples, but it may not always be feasible for those who identify as bisexual because of the nature of their attractions.