Community Belonging: An Important Buffer for Bisexuals Facing Stigmas
Bi+ individuals who feel connected to their communities experience less distress than those who do not. This buffer effect could be due to multiple factors such as increased access to resources and support systems.
Research has demonstrated that the bisexual community faces significant societal prejudices, discrimination, and exclusion, often referred to as "double stigma."
The impact of this marginalization can manifest itself through mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
New evidence suggests that being an active part of a welcoming community can offer psychological protection against these effects.
A study conducted by Massey et al. found that bi+ adults who were actively involved in a social group related to sexuality felt more supported and understood compared to peers who did not participate in such activities. As a result, they reported lower levels of internalized homophobia and higher self-esteem. This highlights the importance of communal ties in fostering resilience among the LGBTQIA2S+ population.
Research conducted by Shelton et al. investigated the effects of perceived community belonging among bisexuals. The results showed that participants who believed they belonged to a tight-knit network displayed better well-being and greater life satisfaction. These findings point towards the necessity of community involvement in alleviating the mental burdens of stigma for bisexuals.
The authors suggest that community participation offers unique benefits to members who may feel isolated or misunderstood elsewhere. It provides opportunities to connect with others sharing similar experiences and build supportive relationships that promote positive identity development.
Increasing sense of belonging helps individuals navigate their identities and cope with external pressures in a healthier way.
It is clear that membership in diverse communities has a protective effect on the psychological well-being of bi+ individuals struggling with double stigmas. Moving forward, there must be a concerted effort to create safer spaces where all members of society can access the resources necessary to live fulfilling lives without fear of judgment or marginalization.
What role does community belonging play in buffering the psychological effects of double stigma and marginalization among bisexual adults?
According to the study conducted by Cahill et al. (2016), bisexual individuals experience higher levels of internalized homophobia, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse than heterosexuals and lesbian/gay individuals due to the perception of biphobia and sexual prejudice in society.