Bisexuals have been criticized and rejected for their sexual orientation by many religions and societies throughout history. This has led to feelings of guilt, shame, and self-doubt that can cause moral injury. To cope with these negative emotions, some bisexual individuals may turn to religion as a source of comfort, while others may reject it altogether.
Navigating this tension between faith and sexuality can be challenging and often requires significant mental effort.
One way bisexuals navigate religious condemnation is by finding supportive communities within their faith tradition.
Some Christian denominations are more accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals than others, and bisexual Christians may find solace in attending a church that values their unique experiences.
Some bisexuals may seek out secular spaces where they can discuss sexuality without fear of judgment from religious leaders.
Another approach is to question the traditional interpretations of scripture used to justify homophobia and transphobia. Some bisexuals may read the Bible or other sacred texts through a queer lens, seeking out passages that affirm their identity rather than denigrate it. Others may engage in critical analysis of religious teachings, examining how they were created and who benefits from them.
Some bisexuals also work to dismantle the patriarchal systems that underlie religious oppression. By challenging gender norms and promoting social justice causes, bisexuals can subvert religious hierarchies and create space for all people to express their true selves. This can include advocacy for marriage equality, reproductive rights, and gender nonconformity.
Not all bisexuals have access to safe and supportive communities, nor do they feel comfortable challenging religious authorities. In these cases, coping mechanisms such as self-care, therapy, and meditation can help mitigate the effects of moral injury.
Navigating this tension requires resilience, courage, and a willingness to challenge cultural assumptions about sex and gender.
How do bisexual individuals navigate moral injury caused by religious condemnation?
Research has found that people who identify as bisexual may experience heightened levels of internalized homophobia due to negative attitudes towards their sexuality within religious communities. This can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and self-loathing, which can cause long-term mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.