The concept of bisexual identity is relatively recent. It emerged from the LGBT movement to describe those who experience attraction towards both men and women but can be more nuanced than that. Some people identify as pansexual, meaning they may feel attracted to nonbinary individuals, whereas others consider themselves demisexual if they are only attracted to someone after forming an emotional connection. There is also fluidity within these categories, as sexuality can change over time.
There are several reasons why some people might suppress their bisexual identity. They could fear being rejected by their family, friends, or community. This fear comes from societal stigma and prejudice against queer identities and behaviors.
Homophobia is still pervasive in many cultures around the world. Others might fear losing their jobs or housing if their bisexuality became known.
There is a stereotype that bisexual individuals are unfaithful or promiscuous because they are unable to commit to one partner. The assumption is that they are constantly searching for new relationships instead of finding lasting love with a single person. While this is not true for everyone, it can lead to negative experiences such as being disregarded, judged, and dismissed as immoral.
Suppressing bisexual identity has psychological costs because it requires hiding part of oneself and conforming to heteronormative expectations. Bisexuals may have difficulty connecting with partners due to anxiety about coming out. They may avoid intimacy altogether, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Their self-esteem may suffer due to internalized biphobia or external criticism from others who do not understand their orientation.
Those who hide their bisexuality may engage in risky behaviors to maintain social harmony, including drinking excessively, using drugs, or having casual sex. These coping mechanisms can be unhealthy and dangerous, potentially leading to addiction or health problems. Suppressing bisexuality also takes a toll on mental health by creating a sense of shame and guilt. It can cause depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
There are benefits to embracing one's authentic sexual identity. Many bisexual people find freedom in expressing themselves openly and celebrating their uniqueness. This acceptance can increase self-confidence, improve interpersonal connections, and decrease the risk of health issues related to stress and trauma.
Living authentically allows individuals to be seen for who they truly are rather than how society expects them to behave.
What are the psychological costs of suppressing bisexual identity for social harmony?
Suppressing one's bisexual identity can lead to various psychological consequences. One potential effect is that it can result in a sense of internal conflict, where an individual feels pressure to hide their true self from others, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety. This can also impact an individual's mental health, as they may experience symptoms such as depression, low self-esteem, or even suicidal thoughts.