Bisexuality is defined as being attracted to both men and women simultaneously, but it can also be used more broadly to describe a person who identifies with multiple genders, orientations, or attractions at once. Bisexuals are often marginalized due to their fluid identity and stereotyped as promiscuous, confused, or indecisive. These assumptions can make it difficult for them to find love and acceptance within society. This essay explores how bisexuals can redefine authenticity beyond consistency through presence within complexity.
To start with, what does it mean to be authentically bisexual? Traditionally, authenticity has been understood as being consistent, unwavering, and true to oneself no matter the circumstances.
This concept may not apply well when applied to people whose identities change over time or those whose sexual attraction shifts between genders or gender identities. Instead, bisexuals can define authenticity as presence within complexity – meaning they remain true to themselves even when their desires, relationships, or experiences shift.
One way bisexuals can achieve this sense of authenticity is by embracing an open mindset toward intimacy. It means being willing to explore different types of connections, whether romantic, sexual, platonic, or otherwise. It involves recognizing that there is no one "right" type of relationship or personality trait that defines a successful partnership. This attitude allows bisexuals to stay true to themselves while remaining flexible enough to accommodate new information about who they are attracted to and what makes them happy in life.
Bisexuals can embrace complexity by acknowledging that their sexuality is not just binary but also includes other identities such as pansexuality, polyamory, or transgenderism. By accepting these other identities, they can expand their understanding of what it means to be bisexual and find ways to connect with others who share similar experiences. Embracing diversity can also help bisexuals overcome stereotypes about promiscuity and indecisiveness by showing that many types of relationships are possible for bisexuals without compromising on their values.
Bisexuals redefine authenticity beyond consistency through presence within complexity. This approach involves embracing an open mindset towards intimacy, recognizing the fluidity of sexual attraction, and acknowledging all aspects of identity. By doing so, bisexuals can create strong relationships founded on trust, respect, and honesty – regardless of gender or orientation.
How do bisexuals redefine authenticity not as consistency, but as presence within complexity?
Psychologists have argued that individuals who identify as bisexual may experience challenges related to authenticity due to social stigma, heteronormative bias, and internalized homophobia. Bisexuality is often misunderstood by both heterosexuals and nonheterosexuals alike, which can lead to feelings of invalidation and confusion for those who identify as such (Schulman & Blaylock, 2018).