Bisexuality is an identity that exists within various social, cultural, and generational contexts, each presenting unique challenges for those who identify as bisexual. Bisexuals often face prejudice from both heterosexual and homosexual communities, leading to feelings of isolation, confusion, and self-doubt.
Research suggests that bisexual identity can evolve in surprising ways when understood in relation to interpersonal experiences and individual development across time. The following will explore how bisexual identity changes through different relationship dynamics, exploring the intersections between biological inclination, societal attitudes, personal growth, and relational influences.
Relationship Dynamics
Monogamous Relationships
For many individuals, monogamy may seem like the ideal relationship dynamic, but for others it can be restrictive. For bisexual people in monogamous relationships with partners of opposite genders, there may be pressure to conform to expectations of sexual exclusivity or gender normativity. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and fear of discovery.
Some studies suggest that bisexual women in these relationships are more likely to have open communication about their attractions and desires than bisexual men (Drescher & LeVasseur, 2017). In addition, some couples find creative solutions that allow them to engage in non-monogamous activities while maintaining fidelity.
Polyamorous Relationships
Polyamory allows for multiple romantic and/or sexual relationships, providing greater flexibility and autonomy for those who identify as bisexual. This may involve dating two individuals simultaneously or entering into a polyfidelitous arrangement where all parties agree not to date outside the group. Polyamory can foster intimacy and emotional support while also accommodating unique physical needs. Studies show that bisexuals may prefer polyamorous arrangements due to feeling more accepted and understood by peers (Chivers et al., 2004), which can help alleviate anxiety around stigma.
Cultural Contexts
Traditional Cultures
Many traditional cultures view bisexuality as deviant or taboo, leading to social isolation, exclusion, and even violence against those who identify as such.
Same-sex attraction is criminalized in many Muslim countries, making it difficult for bisexual people to express themselves openly without risk of prosecution. This can lead to internalized homophobia and repression of sexual desire, contributing to mental health issues like depression and substance abuse.
Some research suggests that bisexuals living in highly conservative societies tend to have more fluid identities than those in liberal ones (Gonzalez-Barrero et al., 2016). In these cases, sexual identity may be negotiated based on context and personal values rather than fixed labels.
Liberal Cultures
In liberal cultures, such as Western Europe and North America, bisexuality is becoming increasingly visible and accepted. This has led to increased visibility for bi individuals and greater acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community.
Challenges remain regarding media representation and misconceptions about bisexuality being a 'phase' or a form of promiscuity. Some studies show that bisexuals in liberal cultures may face more discrimination from within their own communities than heterosexuals or homosexuals (Drescher & LeVasseur, 2017), suggesting that progress is not always linear or uniform.
Generational Contexts
Older Adults
For older adults, bisexual identity may evolve as they reflect on past relationships and experiences with gender norms. Many aging bisexuals report feeling liberated from social expectations and cultural stigma, allowing them to explore new aspects of their sexuality without fear of judgment. Studies suggest that older adults are less likely to view bisexuality as a phase or a symptom of mental illness, which can promote self-acceptance and positive identity development (Chivers et al., 2004).
Many older adults have experienced a range of relationships throughout their lives, providing insights into the complexities of attraction and desire across time.
Young Adults
Young adults may be exploring their identities more actively, leading to a greater willingness to embrace bisexuality.
They also face unique challenges such as navigating hookup culture and online dating, which can lead to objectification and exploitation. In addition, some youth struggle with coming out due to parental rejection or lack of support systems within their schools or communities. Despite these obstacles, young bi individuals often express optimism about future acceptance and understanding (Gonzalez-Barrero et al., 2016). This suggests that generational shifts in attitudes towards sexuality may be accelerating.
How does bisexual identity evolve across different relational, cultural, and generational contexts?
Bisexual identity is an umbrella term used to describe individuals who are attracted to more than one gender. The concept of bisexuality has been around for centuries but has only recently become more prevalent as people become more open about their sexuality. Bisexuality can take on many forms depending on individual experience and preference, such as casual sex, monogamy, polyamory, etc. , making it difficult to define with precision.