Internalized Heteronormativity and Gender Norms Contribute to Psychological Conflict in Bisexual Individuals
Bisexual people are often excluded from the discussion of LGBTQ+ rights and representation due to their perceived privilege of being able to pass as straight when it suits them.
This "passing" is made possible through an internalization of gender norms that can lead to harmful feelings of shame and confusion for bisexuals. Internalized heteronormativity refers to the belief that heterosexuality is the normal way of being in society and anything else is abnormal. This belief creates a pressure for bisexuals to conform to heteronormative expectations, leading to psychological distress. At the same time, bisexuals may feel pressure to adhere to traditional gender roles and binaries which further contributes to their feelings of conflict.
In addition to internalized heteronormativity, gender norms play a significant role in bisexual individuals' mental health. Many bisexuals experience a disconnect between their own identities and those they see around them.
Some women who identify as bisexual may be attracted to men but still feel expected to act like a woman in social situations. Similarly, some men who identify as bisexual may be attracted to both men and women but still feel pressured to present themselves as masculine in order to fit into societal gender roles. These conflicting messages about identity and behavior can lead to feelings of confusion and isolation.
There is evidence to suggest that bisexual individuals face discrimination at higher rates than other members of the LGBTQ+ community. Bisexual people are often marginalized within the larger LGBTQ+ community due to the assumption that bisexuality is not legitimate or real. This stigma can cause bisexuals to doubt their own sexual orientation and question whether they should even come out publicly. The result is a lack of support systems, increased isolation, and an exacerbated sense of internalized homophobia or biphobia.
The internalization of heteronormativity and gender norms can have a profound impact on the psychological well-being of bisexual individuals. It is important for society to recognize and challenge these harmful beliefs in order to create a more inclusive environment where all individuals can express their true selves without fear of judgment or discrimination.
How do internalized heteronormativity and gender norms contribute to psychological conflict in bisexual individuals?
Internalized heteronormativity refers to the belief that being straight is the only acceptable form of sexual orientation and that homosexuality or bisexuality is wrong or abnormal. This can lead to feelings of shame and guilt for bisexuals, which may manifest as psychological conflicts such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and isolation. Gender norms refer to societal expectations about how men and women should behave based on their sex assigned at birth.