Sexual orientation is defined by what gender(s) one is attracted to for romantic or sexual relationships. There are many types of attraction that can be combined or prioritized differently.
Someone may experience bisexuality if they feel equally drawn to men and women. This term is commonly abbreviated as "bi" and has been recognized since the early 1900s. Bisexuals often face social pressure to identify as either gay or straight due to the narrow views of society. In recent years, there have been movements towards embracing fluid identities like pansexuality, queerness, and demisexuality.
Polyamory refers to being in multiple simultaneous romantic or sexual relationships with consent from all parties involved. It does not imply promiscuity or infidelity but rather a conscious choice to embrace diversity in intimate partnerships. Polyamorous individuals may be single, coupled, or otherwise partnered while seeking out other connections. Fluidity refers to the idea that one's sexual preferences and identity can change over time and circumstance. Many people experiment with different kinds of intimacy throughout their lives, which makes it difficult to categorize them neatly into strict labels. Relational diversity refers to having varied forms of intimacy within any given relationship, whether monogamous, polyamorous, or open. These terms are not mutually exclusive and may overlap.
Media narratives about bisexuality tend to focus on stereotypes of promiscuity and confusion, leading to stigmatization and internalized shame. This can make it challenging for bisexual individuals to explore their sexuality without fear of judgment.
These preconceptions do not accurately reflect real experiences. Some bisexuals feel comfortable exploring polyamory because they understand its nature as an expression of authentic desire. Others may struggle with jealousy or anxiety when dealing with multiple partners. Still, many find that polyamory allows them to express themselves fully, making it more fulfilling than monogamy.
The media often portrays non-monogamy negatively, suggesting cheating and emotional instability. This can lead to misunderstandings about what polyamory means and why someone might choose it. Bisexuals who identify as polyamorous may face additional scrutiny due to society's assumptions about bisexuality being inherently promiscuous. They must navigate this stigma while also explaining the complexities of relational diversity. It is essential to respect their choices and acknowledge the nuances involved in their relationships.
Bisexual individuals have unique perspectives on polyamory, fluidity, and relational diversity shaped by personal experiences and cultural contexts. It is crucial to recognize that these identities exist beyond rigid categories and cannot be reduced to simple labels. We should celebrate the varied ways people seek connection, intimacy, and pleasure and support bisexuals in their journey toward self-acceptance and fulfillment.
How do media narratives affect bisexual individuals' comfort with polyamory, fluidity, and relational diversity?
Mediated narratives can influence how bisexual people feel about nonmonogamy, fluidity, and relationship diversity. Some research shows that bi folks may be more likely to experience negative attitudes toward these identities from family members, coworkers, and friends (Goldberg & Fetters, 2018).