The study of bisexual identity in literature, sociology, philosophy, politics, psychology, and other disciplines has often focused on its marginalization, invisibility, and ambiguity. Bisexuals have been stereotypically portrayed as greedy, indecisive, promiscuous, confused, unstable, selfish, and unfeminine/unmasculine.
Some researchers suggest that these negative representations stem from heteronormative and homonormative frameworks rather than actual experiences of bisexuals. They argue for redefining bisexual identity beyond dichotomies such as "man" vs. "woman", binary gender norms, monogamy vs. polyamory, and heterosexual vs. homosexual categories. In recent years, there has been an increase in studies exploring how bisexual individuals reclaim agency through re-centering their narratives within LGBTQ+ spaces. This trend is part of a larger movement towards decolonizing queer theory, which seeks to challenge power structures within LGBTQ+ communities and promote equitable representation of all sexualities and genders.
Bisexual people often face discrimination and exclusion within both hetero and gay/lesbian circles due to being seen as neither fully one nor the other. Some studies show that bisexuals experience higher rates of mental health issues than non-LGBTQ+ counterparts, while others highlight the positive aspects of bi identities and relationships. It is important to acknowledge how this erasure impacts bisexual individuals' sense of belonging, safety, and well-being. By claiming ownership over their unique lived realities, bisexuals can disrupt preconceived notions of what it means to be bi and offer alternative models of sexuality based on individual preferences rather than cultural norms. They may also share personal stories or experiences that reflect diverse desires and practices without necessarily aligning with mainstream representations.
Re-centering bisexual narratives involves challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about bisexuality, advocating for inclusive policies and services, creating safe spaces for discussion and support, and promoting self-affirmation. Organizations like BiNet USA, Bisexual Resource Center, Bi Visibility Day, and others work towards these goals by providing educational materials, organizing events, publishing resources, and collaborating with allies. Their efforts seek to empower bisexual individuals to reclaim agency through embracing their identities openly and unapologetically while resisting pressures from outside forces. This approach fosters greater visibility and recognition of bisexual voices, enabling more nuanced understandings of bi lives and affirmations of all sexual orientations within LGBTQ+ communities.
How do bisexual individuals reclaim agency through re-centering their narratives within LGBTQ+ spaces?
As a result of social stigma against bisexuality, bisexual individuals may experience lower self-esteem and higher rates of depression than their heterosexual counterparts. According to researchers at the University of Michigan, bisexual people tend to have less favorable attitudes toward themselves than lesbian, gay, or straight people due to negative stereotypes that associate them with promiscuity and indecisiveness.