How do bisexual men and women experience gendered expectations differently in expressing their identity?
Bisexual people are individuals who can be attracted to both men and women sexually and romantically. This is different from those who identify as homosexual because they can only be attracted to one gender exclusively. Bisexuals often face challenges when it comes to expressing their identity due to the misconception that bisexuality does not exist, or that it is just a phase in one's life. The world is more accepting of homosexuality than bisexuality because society has rigid ideas about what constitutes masculinity and femininity. These stereotypes affect how bisexuals express their identities. The expression of bisexuality for both men and women is subject to societal norms and expectations surrounding sexual behavior based on gender roles.
Gender Roles
There are specific behaviors expected of men and women in society. Men are supposed to be strong, aggressive, and assertive while women should be passive, submissive, and nurturing. When it comes to sexual preferences, these traits also apply to men and women.
Women are perceived as being promiscuous if they have multiple partners regardless of their orientation.
Men are not judged harshly for having multiple sexual partners since this is associated with their masculinity. Women are usually expected to be faithful to their husbands/partners which may put them at risk of being called names like slut or whore.
Bisexual Men
Men tend to experience less discrimination compared to women for exhibiting bisexual tendencies. They are not forced into marriage, unlike women who are pressured by societal norms to get married and settle down with one partner. Since bisexual men are seen as attracted to both genders, they may find themselves in heterosexual relationships where they fit the male role while maintaining a secret same-sex relationship. Most of them do not open up about their sexuality until much later because they fear judgment from others, especially their family members.
Bisexual Women
Bisexual women are more likely to face scrutiny than men. They are viewed as not 'pure' enough for the opposite gender due to their attraction to both sexes. Women who identify as bisexual are often seen as confused, unfaithful, or promiscuous. This leads many bisexual women to choose between being straight or lesbian rather than express their true identity. Those that do come out end up facing backlash from friends, families, and society at large. This makes it difficult for them to live freely without fear of rejection or stigma. In addition, there is a double standard when it comes to bisexual women; they have to prove their bisexuality by having had sexual experiences with both sexes, but this is not expected of men.
How do bisexual men and women experience gendered expectations differently in expressing their identity?
Bisexual individuals face unique challenges when it comes to their identity and how they express it due to gendered expectations placed on them by society. Bisexual men may be expected to adhere to traditional masculine norms and are often not accepted as "real" men if they show any femininity in their behavior or appearance. Similarly, bisexual women may be seen as promiscuous or untrustworthy and not taken seriously by both men and women.