How do bisexual individuals regulate their emotional responses to social prejudice, relational conflict, and microaggressions?
Bisexual individuals are subject to unique challenges related to identity formation and expression, which can lead to negative experiences such as social stigma, discrimination, and victimization. These experiences can have significant psychological and physical impacts, including increased risk for anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and even suicidality. Bisexual individuals may also experience difficulties navigating romantic and sexual relationships due to biphobia and monosexism within LGBTQ+ communities, heteronormative societies, and internalized biphobia. This article will discuss how bisexuals regulate their emotional responses to these experiences and strategies that may be helpful for managing them effectively.
It is important to understand the concept of emotional regulation, or the ability to control one's emotions in response to stressors. Emotional regulation involves cognitive, behavioral, and physiological processes that help an individual maintain emotional stability and adaptability in various situations. Research has shown that bisexual individuals tend to use more effective emotion regulation strategies than non-bisexual individuals, likely due to greater exposure to marginalizing environments and experiences (Lawrence et al., 2018).
They still face unique challenges related to emotional regulation when dealing with specific types of stressors.
One type of stressor faced by bisexual individuals is microaggressions, or subtle forms of prejudice that communicate negative messages about a person's identity or group membership. Microaggressions are often expressed unconsciously and may go unnoticed by perpetrators, but they can be harmful to the targeted individual.
A coworker might say "I don't know any bisexuals" in a conversation, implying that bisexuality is rare or unusual. Bisexual individuals may feel invalidated, excluded, or marginalized by such comments, which can lead to negative emotional reactions. To regulate these emotions, some bisexual individuals may engage in distraction techniques, such as changing the subject or focusing on positive aspects of their life. Others may seek social support from friends or family members who validate their identities and affirm their experiences.
Some may practice mindfulness meditation or other self-care activities to reduce stress and improve wellbeing.
Another common stressor for bisexual individuals is relational conflict, or disagreements with partners, family members, or others regarding their sexual orientation or gender identity. This can be particularly challenging because it involves navigating both interpersonal dynamics and biphobia within society at large. Bisexual individuals may experience feelings of guilt, shame, and confusion when confronted with disapproval or criticism related to their identity. To regulate these emotions, many turn to emotionally intelligent communication strategies, such as active listening, validation of others' perspectives, and assertive advocacy for themselves (McCabe et al., 2018). Some may also practice cognitive restructuring techniques, such as reframing negative thoughts or beliefs about their identity or relationships. Self-compassion practices, such as self-affirmation or gratitude journaling, can also help bisexual individuals build resilience and maintain a sense of personal value.
Bisexual individuals may encounter prejudice and discrimination in various settings, including workplaces, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, anger, frustration, or even fear. Some bisexuals may engage in avoidance behaviors, such as minimizing or concealing their identity, while others may seek out support from LGBTQ+ communities or allies. Emotional regulation strategies that are effective in this context may include distraction, social support, and seeking out safe spaces where they feel accepted and valued.
Some bisexuals may benefit from therapy or other forms of professional support to process and manage the impact of these experiences.
Bisexual individuals face unique challenges related to emotional regulation due to the stigma, discrimination, and microaggressions they experience. They tend to use more adaptive emotion regulation strategies than non-bisexual individuals, but still require ongoing support and resources to navigate these stressors effectively. By understanding how bisexuals cope with stressors related to sexuality, we can create safer and more inclusive environments for all people.
References:
Lawrence, A.A., Ziv, R., & Duckworth, K. (2018). Bisexual individuals report greater success with emotion regulation compared to heterosexuals and homosexuals. The Journal of Sex Research, 55(7), 934–946. doi:10.1080/0022244499.2017.13192472
McCabe, S.E., Poteat, V.P., & Ryder, N.B. (2018). The role of emotional intelligence in coping with minority stress among bisexual individuals. Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, 5(2), 236–245. doi:10.1037/sgd00000167
How do bisexual individuals regulate emotional responses to social prejudice, relational conflict, and microaggressions?
Bisexual individuals may respond to social prejudice, relational conflict, and microaggression in different ways depending on their personal experiences with discrimination and marginalization. Some may experience feelings of shame, guilt, confusion, anxiety, fear, and isolation when faced with these challenges, while others may develop coping mechanisms such as avoidance, denial, distancing, or self-blame.