Bisexual people have always been a subject of interest for researchers due to their unique sexual orientation that has attracted attention from both society and science. Bisexuals are often described as those who feel romantic attraction towards men and women equally but can be more strongly attracted to one gender than another. This definition is based on heterosexual norms because it does not consider other genders such as transgender or nonbinary individuals who may identify as bisexual. Bisexuality also involves an individual's behavior and how they express their sexuality and desire across different timeframes. Bisexual individuals have reported feeling like they have multiple selves within them and experience temporal fragmentation when moving between relationships.
Temporal fragmentation refers to the sense of being divided into separate pieces of themselves as if they were living out different lives simultaneously.
When in a relationship with someone of the same sex, they might think about what would happen if they were dating someone else at the same time and vice versa. They feel pulled in different directions and may struggle to keep up with all the demands on their time and energy. It can cause feelings of anxiety, guilt, and shame, which can lead to confusion and self-doubt. It can also affect their ability to fully commit to any particular partner or relationship.
Research suggests that bisexual individuals may experience greater levels of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem compared to their monosexual counterparts. This could stem from societal pressure, internalized biphobia, or simply navigating a world that is not designed for people who fall outside traditional sexual norms.
Some studies suggest that this difference could also be due to the unique experiences bisexuals face in terms of managing their attraction to more than one gender.
One study found that bisexual women had higher levels of stress related to their sexual orientation than heterosexual or lesbian women, which could indicate that they are experiencing greater levels of prejudice and discrimination. Another study showed that bisexual men experienced greater levels of distress than either heterosexual or gay men, suggesting that they too felt pressure to conform to traditional expectations of masculinity.
Temporal fragmentation can impact how bisexuals view themselves and their relationships. They may feel like they are constantly switching between different versions of themselves depending on who they're with, leading them to question whether they truly love both partners equally. This can create a sense of disconnection and isolation within their own lives. It can also make it difficult for others to understand and accept their identity, as they may appear inconsistent or unstable.
Understanding how bisexual individuals experience time and relationships is important for improving support systems and creating an inclusive society. By recognizing the complexity of bisexuality and working towards eliminating discrimination, we can help bisexuals live happier, healthier lives without having to hide their true selves.
How do bisexual individuals experience temporal fragmentation — feeling different selves across time and relationships?
Bisexual individuals may experience temporal fragmentation due to their attraction to multiple genders, which can create a sense of dissonance and confusion within themselves and their relationships. This phenomenon is often referred to as "feeling different selves" or "shifting identities.