Bisexuality is a gender identity whereby people are attracted to both men and women. They have been stereotypically known for being sexually promiscuous and unfaithful while they are just as monogamous as heterosexuals or homosexuals. Bisexual people can be either male or female but the term is mostly used when referring to females since they tend to get more stigmatized than males. In recent years, bisexuals have become more open about their sexuality and less afraid of coming out compared to before.
Many still hide their true identities from others because they fear social rejection and discrimination. This paper seeks to explain how bisexuals experience validation and invalidation in digital versus in-person environments.
The internet has revolutionized communication between individuals across the globe. People have different social circles on the internet that include friends, family members, colleagues, acquaintances, business partners, and even strangers. Bisexual individuals feel comfortable talking about their sexual orientation online because they are free to express themselves without fear of judgment. The internet provides anonymity which makes it easier for them to share intimate details about their private lives. They can search for information on bisexuality, seek advice on relationships, find other bisexuals, and participate in discussions related to bisexuality.
There are websites designed specifically for bisexuals where they can connect with like-minded individuals and find support groups.
Online dating platforms such as Tinder and OkCupid allow bisexuals to meet and date potential partners. They do not have to worry about being judged by their sexuality since most dating apps focus on physical attraction rather than gender identity. Bisexuals also feel safe meeting new people in a public setting because they know nothing personal will be shared or revealed until they choose to reveal it. There is no pressure to conform to societal norms when interacting with someone online.
Contrarily, face-to-face interactions present more challenges for bisexuals who struggle to fit into heteronormative society. In general, they receive negative stereotypes from both straight and gay people who think they cannot make up their minds and are indecisive. This leads to invalidation of their feelings and thoughts about their sexuality. Many bisexuals keep their true selves hidden out of fear of rejection and alienation. Some hide behind monogamous relationships while others avoid social gatherings altogether. A survey conducted among bisexuals found that 52% had been rejected due to their sexual orientation and 36% were bullied at school.
Bisexuals are often accused of being unfaithful to their partners if one or the other party is not bisexual. They are expected to settle down with either men or women and be loyal to them forever.
Some bisexuals argue that this is unfair because they can love both men and women equally and desire intimacy with either gender depending on who they are attracted to at any given time. While bisexuals experience invalidation in-person, they find validation on the internet through support groups and social media platforms.
Although bisexuals may feel accepted online, they still encounter invalidation offline. The only way we can combat such stigmas is by educating people on bisexuality and creating safe spaces where bisexuals can express themselves without fear of judgment.
In what ways do bisexual individuals experience social validation or invalidation in digital versus in-person environments?
Despite growing acceptance of bisexuality among some communities, there is still a prevalent stigma around it that can lead to social invalidation for bisexuals. In both digital and physical environments, bisexual people may encounter discrimination from others who view their sexual orientation as unnatural, immoral, or simply not real. This can take the form of microaggressions, such as jokes, insults, or exclusionary behavior.