Bisexuals are often seen as individuals who have difficulties committing to one person, either for personal reasons or due to their own nature. It is believed that they cannot be satisfied in one relationship because they desire both male and female partners equally.
This belief can be challenged since bisexuals do not necessarily experience greater dissatisfaction than heterosexuals or homosexuals. In fact, research has shown that people who identify as bisexual may be more likely to report higher levels of satisfaction in their current relationship compared to their heterosexual counterparts. They also tend to report feeling less pressure to adhere to traditional gender roles and expectations, which allows them to form stronger bonds with their partner. This paper will discuss how bisexual identity influences interpretations of relational satisfaction, intimacy, and commitment over time.
It should be noted that bisexuality does not mean promiscuity or being unable to stay committed to one person. Bisexuals are capable of forming long-term relationships just like anyone else. Their sexual orientation does not define their ability to love one person exclusively. The misconception about bisexuals' lack of loyalty comes from a misunderstanding of what "bisexual" means. Bisexuality refers to an attraction to multiple genders, not multiple partners. Therefore, bisexuals can be attracted to someone of the same sex and also to someone of the opposite sex simultaneously. This means that they can still maintain monogamy while having romantic and sexual feelings for two different individuals at once.
Bisexuals tend to experience lower rates of infidelity than other sexual orientations. A study by Dr. Lisa Diamond found that bisexuals reported fewer extramarital affairs than both straight and gay couples.
When they did cheat, it was usually with another person of the same gender rather than with someone of the opposite gender. This suggests that bisexuals are more likely to seek out emotional fulfillment within their primary relationship instead of seeking it elsewhere. Therefore, bisexuality may actually enhance relational satisfaction by providing a greater range of options for finding connection and intimacy.
Bisexuality has been linked to higher levels of intimacy in relationships. Since bisexuals do not adhere strictly to traditional gender roles, they may feel freer to express themselves fully within their relationship. This leads to a deeper understanding and appreciation of each partner's unique qualities, which can strengthen the bond between them.
Bisexuals may be able to communicate better with their partner because they have a wider knowledge base regarding gender issues and dynamics.
Bisexual identity does not necessarily impede on one's ability to form strong, committed relationships over time. Instead, it may even lead to higher levels of relational satisfaction, intimacy, and commitment.
How does bisexual identity influence interpretations of relational satisfaction, intimacy, and commitment over time?
Bisexuals often experience unique challenges in their relationships due to societal stigmas and misconceptions about their sexual orientation. These include struggles with coming out and navigating heteronormative culture, as well as difficulty finding partners who are comfortable with their sexuality (Hughes et al. , 2016).