The concept of bisexuality has been around for centuries but it is still misunderstood. Bisexuals are often seen as promiscuous or indecisive people who cannot make up their mind about what they want. This viewpoint ignores the fact that bisexuality is more than just sexual attraction to both men and women; it is also about how one experiences gender and relationships. In this article, I will explore how bisexual experience redefines social belonging as an internal rather than external process.
Bisexuals may feel drawn to individuals regardless of their gender. They can be attracted to men, women, transgender people, nonbinary individuals, intersex individuals, or anyone else who identifies themselves as a man or woman. Some people identify as polyamorous bisexuals, meaning they have multiple partners simultaneously. Others choose to monogamously date someone of either sex. Still, others identify as pansexuals and find themselves attracted to all genders. All these people may face different challenges in finding their place in society because they do not fit into traditional binary categories.
Social belonging is defined as feeling part of a community or group based on shared characteristics such as race, ethnicity, national origin, culture, religion, language, education level, socioeconomic status, age, sexual orientation, etc. The idea of belonging is usually associated with external factors like family background, friends, school, workplace, religion, hobbies, etc.
Bisexual people can belong even if those things do not apply to them.
A person may come from a conservative Christian family where homosexuality is seen as sinful but still feels comfortable being bisexual. They can find acceptance in online groups or local LGBTQ+ communities that celebrate diversity and inclusion. Bisexuals who are married to someone of the opposite gender may still feel accepted by other bisexuals who understand their struggles with coming out and embracing their identity.
The most important factor for social belonging is internal rather than external - how one relates to themselves and their relationships with others. Bisexuals must learn to accept themselves despite societal prejudices against them. They should recognize that bisexuality is valid and natural, not a phase or an experimentation stage. By doing this, they can create a support system around them that accepts and supports them regardless of whether they date men or women exclusively.
Bisexuals often struggle with fitting in because they don't conform to expectations about monogamy, marriage, and traditional gender roles. Their partners might be jealous of other lovers or disapprove of their non-binary identity. This can lead to isolation and loneliness, making it difficult to build meaningful connections within society. But once they find understanding and acceptance within themselves and others, they can establish strong bonds based on mutual trust and respect.
Bisexual experience redefines social belonging as an internal process rooted in self-acceptance and connection with like-minded individuals. It allows people to break free from restrictive binary categories and embrace their true selves. Embracing bisexuality requires courage but also brings great rewards: freedom from shame, greater self-awareness, deeper intimacy with loved ones, and new friendships with fellow bisexuals worldwide.
How does bisexual experience redefine social belonging as an internal rather than external process?
Bisexuals' experiences with identity formation can redefine their sense of social belonging from an external to an internal process. Rather than seeking acceptance from others based on their sexual orientation, they may learn to define themselves based on their personal desires and preferences. This shift in focus towards self-acceptance and validation can lead to greater independence and resilience in navigating society.