What is bisexuality?
Bisexuality is an identity that refers to people who are attracted to both men and women. It is one of several identities under the umbrella term "bisexual", which also includes pansexuals, omnisexuals, polysexuals, queers, fluid, and nonbinary individuals. Bisexuality can be defined broadly as the attraction to any gender. More specifically, it may refer to the attraction to genders that are masculine and feminine or gender-nonconforming.
How does bisexuality affect perceptions of relational equity, fairness, and reciprocity?
Relationships can become complicated when multiple partners are involved, especially when they involve different levels of commitment, intimacy, and attachment. In monogamous relationships, there is typically a clear sense of ownership and exclusivity between partners.
In open relationships, polyamory, or situations involving polyfidelity, these boundaries become blurred, and relational dynamics must be negotiated carefully. When a third partner is added to the equation, power dynamics and the balance of affection can shift significantly. The presence of another person may create feelings of jealousy, competition, and resentment, as well as feelings of exclusion, insecurity, and fear of rejection. This dynamic can be particularly challenging for bisexual people, who may feel pulled towards two (or more) different partners simultaneously.
The bisexual identity and its implications on relationships
The bisexual identity has been historically misunderstood and stigmatized. Biphobia and bi-erasure are common experiences that contribute to the marginalization of bisexual people. This marginalization can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and self-doubt. It can also create barriers to intimate connection and communication. Bisexual individuals may find themselves forced to hide their sexual orientation from partners or friends due to fear of judgment, discrimination, or social ostracism. This secrecy can take an emotional toll, leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
In addition to internalized biphobia, bisexual individuals may experience external pressures to "choose" one gender over another. They may feel pressure from society, family members, peers, or partners to identify as gay or straight instead of bi. This can result in a loss of agency and autonomy, making it difficult to express their true selves openly and authentically.
How does this affect relational equity, fairness, and reciprocity?
When a bisexual individual is dating someone monogamously, they may face unique challenges related to maintaining equity, fairness, and reciprocity within the relationship.
If both partners are exclusively heterosexual, there may be a sense of unequal power dynamics between them. One partner may have more experience with sexual attraction, while the other feels like they cannot relate. Or, one partner may be more experienced in terms of intimacy and communication, leaving the other feeling out of their league.
Another challenge for bisexuals is navigating mixed-gender relationships. When two people of different genders come together, they bring different expectations and experiences to the table. The bisexual person may struggle to balance these differences, leading to feelings of guilt, confusion, and frustration. They may also find themselves trying to appease each partner's needs at the expense of their own.
The bisexual identity and its implications on non-monogamy
Bisexuality is often associated with non-monogamy, but this is not always the case. Many bisexual individuals seek monogamous relationships with either men or women, depending on their preferences and priorities. Others choose polyamory or consensually non-monogamous relationships, where they can explore multiple identities and expressions simultaneously. In such arrangements, relational equity, fairness, and reciprocity become even more critical. Each partner must feel valued, respected, and heard, regardless of gender identity. This can be challenging when one partner has more physical or emotional energy than another.
How does this affect relational equity, fairness, and reciprocity?
When there are multiple partners involved, it becomes essential to negotiate boundaries, rules, and expectations. Bisexual individuals may have unique perspectives on what constitutes appropriate behavior within a relationship dynamic.
They may feel that jealousy or possessiveness are unreasonable in situations where all partners are equally invested. Or, they may want to take turns being "primary" or "secondary," allowing everyone equal access to intimacy and affection.
In polyfidelity (a type of group marriage), there are additional considerations. All members must agree to the arrangement and work together towards common goals. The balance of power and attention between them must be carefully managed. Again, bisexuals may struggle with these dynamics if they feel like they are being excluded or left out. They may also find themselves caught in the middle of conflicts or arguments between other partners.
The bisexual identity and its implications on
In what ways does bisexuality affect perceptions of relational equity, fairness, and reciprocity in intimate relationships?
Bisexuals are often perceived as being more sexually promiscuous than heterosexuals and homosexuals because of their willingness to explore sexuality with people of different genders (Sagarin & Sagin, 2019).