To understand how media portrayals affect identity formation, relational expectations, and psychological well-being during adolescence and adulthood, it is necessary to first examine the concept of sexuality itself. Sexuality can be defined as an individual's physical, emotional, romantic, and spiritual attraction to others. It encompasses one's personal feelings about gender roles, relationships, and sexual behavior, as well as their desires for intimate interactions. The term "bisexual" refers to a person who experiences sexual attraction towards both men and women. Bisexual individuals may engage in same-sex or opposite-sex relationships, but they are not necessarily polyamorous or promiscuous.
In popular culture, bisexuals are often depicted as promiscuous, unreliable, and unable to form stable relationships. These negative stereotypes perpetuate stigma and discrimination against bisexuals, leading to social isolation and poor mental health outcomes.
Research suggests that there is more nuance to this phenomenon.
Some studies have found that bisexuals report higher levels of self-esteem than gay or straight individuals due to feeling less pressure to conform to societal norms.
Bisexual individuals experience unique challenges regarding relationship dynamics, such as difficulty finding partners who accept them and negotiating boundaries within relationships. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. On the other hand, positive media portrayals of bisexuality can help normalize identity formation and encourage acceptance. One study showed that exposure to positive representations of bisexuals on television reduced participants' prejudice towards bisexuals.
Media portrayals of bisexuality play an important role in shaping individuals' identities and relational expectations during adolescence and adulthood. Positive representation can promote self-acceptance and reduce stigma, while negative portrayals can contribute to feelings of isolation and poor mental health. It is crucial for society to continue working towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment for all sexual orientations.
Media portrayals of bisexuality influence identity formation, relational expectations, and psychological well-being throughout adolescence and adulthood. While stereotypes may persist, increasingly positive depictions can create a safer and more supportive space for bisexual individuals.
In what ways do media portrayals of bisexuality influence identity formation, relational expectations, and psychological well-being throughout adolescence and adulthood?
The media has been criticized for its limited depiction of sexual minorities and their experiences. Bisexuals are often represented as either "greedy" or "unfaithful", which negatively affects their self-esteem and identity development during adolescence and young adulthood. The media's misrepresentation may result in internalizing negative attitudes towards oneself, such as believing that one is not good enough, or causing others to view them differently.