By Lindsay Caldwell, Resident in Counseling, CFRA
Bi-phobia, the fear of and discrimination against bisexuality, can have detrimental effects on the mental health and well-being of those who identify as bisexual. Bisexuality is defined as attraction to more than one gender; whereas, pansexuality means attraction to any individual regardless of gender identity or biological sex. Biphobia is similar to homophobia, but with some crucial differences. Some studies have found that negative attitudes about bisexuals, also referred to as bi-negativity, are more prevalent than negative attitudes about lesbians or gay men (Eliason, 1997). The constant invalidation and erasure of bisexual identities can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Bisexual people often feel invisible (Gayety Team, 2021). For example, you may notice that the image paired with this article is missing a symbol– it represents heterosexual, gay, lesbian, and trans identities, but not bisexuality. We found stock images to represent other sexual minorities, but none representing bisexuality, despite the fact that there is a unique symbol or flag for the bisexual community.
Bi-negativity and discrimination can come from both the heterosexual and LGBTQ+ communities, leading to feelings of isolation and self-doubt (Arriaga & Parent, 2019). A common misconception is that people choose to identify as bisexual to avoid being labeled as gay (Wilkinson, 2023). However, bisexuality is its own distinct and valid identity.
Bisexual individuals may also struggle with internalized bi-phobia, questioning their own identity and worth due to societal stigma. Bisexual people often have to contend with gender stereotypes and myths, which conflate bisexuality with promiscuity. According to research, bisexual individuals are no more or less promiscuous than those with other sexual identities. Due to the prevalence of these negative attitudes, bisexual people can struggle with low self esteem, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therapy can play a crucial role in helping bisexual individuals navigate and overcome these challenges. Therapists can also advocate for bisexual clients and work to change negative attitudes in society.
Through therapy, individuals can explore and process their experiences of discrimination and internalized stigma. Therapists can provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their identity, build self-acceptance, and develop a sense of empowerment in the face of bi-phobia. By seeking therapy, bisexual individuals can work towards healing from the emotional wounds inflicted by bi-phobia and societal discrimination. Therapists can also help individuals build resilience, change negative beliefs about their identity, and cultivate a sense of self-worth and belonging. Through therapy, individuals can learn to embrace their bisexuality in a way that allows them to lead an authentic lifestyle and express their true selves.
Developing self-compassion and cultivating a positive sense of self ultimately improves their mental health and overall well-being.
References:
Arriaga, A.S. & Parent, M.C. (2019). Partners and Prejudice: Bisexual Partner Gender and Experiences of Binegativity From Heterosexual, Lesbian, and Gay People. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38463642/
Bi-Erasure: Why So Many Bisexual People Feel Invisible. (2021). https://gayety.co/bi-erasure-why-so-many-bisexual-people-feel-invisible
Eliason, M.J. (1997). The prevalence and nature of biphobia in heterosexual undergraduate students. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9146816/
Wilkinson, K. (2023). What’s the difference between bisexuality and pansexuality? Very Well Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/pansexual-vs-bisexual-
7097854#:~:text=A%20key%20difference%2C%20however%2C%20is,to%20more%20than%20one%20gender.