Bisexual identity activism involves advocating for greater visibility, understanding, and acceptance of people who identify as bisexual. This can take many forms such as organizing events, creating media campaigns, conducting research, collaborating with community organizations, writing articles, etc. Such efforts have been shown to bring about positive changes in the way society views and treats bisexual individuals.
There is limited evidence on how such actions impact an individual's emotional wellbeing. This article examines some possible outcomes that could arise from engaging in bisexual identity activism.
Feeling a sense of empowerment
One potential outcome of being involved in bisexual identity activism is feeling empowered. When people see themselves represented in media, they feel validated and affirmed. This can create a sense of pride and confidence in their sexual orientation.
When people engage in activist activities, they gain a sense of purpose and accomplishment. They become more invested in the cause and are motivated to continue their work. The result is a boost in self-esteem, which improves overall mental health.
Increased social support
Another outcome of bisexual identity activism is increased social support. Engaging in activism creates opportunities to meet like-minded individuals who share similar interests and goals. These connections lead to a broader social network, allowing bisexuals to find meaningful relationships outside of their immediate surroundings. This can be particularly important for those who live in areas where bisexuality is less accepted or where there are fewer bisexual individuals. Building these connections also means having someone to talk to and seek advice from when needed. Having a strong social support system has been linked with better physical and mental health outcomes.
Reduced stigma
Bisexual identity activism can reduce stigmatization of bisexual individuals by increasing visibility and education about bisexuality. This can help dispel stereotypes and myths associated with bisexuality. As people learn more about bisexuality, they become more accepting and tolerant of it.
This can lead to reduced prejudice and discrimination against bisexuals. A reduction in stigma can improve an individual's emotional wellbeing as they feel safer being themselves without fear of judgment or rejection.
Improved self-acceptance
Engaging in bisexual identity activism may improve self-acceptance. When people advocate for the acceptance of bisexuality, they must first acknowledge and embrace their own bisexuality. This process involves coming to terms with any negative beliefs they have internalized about their sexual orientation. By doing so, they gain greater self-awareness and understanding of their feelings and needs. This increased self-knowledge can create a sense of inner peace and contentment.
Seeing positive changes happening around them due to their efforts can boost their confidence in themselves and their abilities.
What are the emotional outcomes of bisexual individuals engaging in identity activism?
Bisexual individuals who actively participate in advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights may experience a range of positive and negative emotions, including increased self-esteem, validation, belonging, empowerment, frustration, disappointment, fatigue, and burnout. On the one hand, they may feel validated and affirmed by being part of a larger community that shares their experiences and recognizes their identities as legitimate.