Bisexuality is one of the most common and most misunderstood sexual orientations. People often make assumptions about what it means to be bi, how attraction works, or whether someone is “really” bisexual. These assumptions can lead to confusion, invisibility, or even shame. This article explores what it means to be bisexual, how it shows up in different people’s lives, and why bisexuality deserves the same visibility and respect as any other identity.
Bisexuality includes attraction to more than one gender
At its core, bisexuality means being attracted to both people of your own gender and people of other genders. That might include men and women, but also nonbinary, genderqueer, or agender people. Some bisexual folks feel attraction in different ways or in different intensities depending on the person. Others experience attraction that shifts over time. There’s no single way to be bi. The common thread is that attraction isn’t limited to just one gender.
Some myths about bisexuality:
- “Bisexual people are just going through a phase.”
This myth dismisses bisexuality as temporary or attention-seeking. In reality, bisexuality is a stable, valid identity for many people throughout their lives. - “They’re confused or indecisive.”
Bisexual people aren’t confused, they’re attracted to more than one gender. That doesn’t mean they’re unsure of who they are. - “Bisexuality reinforces the gender binary.”
Some people assume “bi” only means attraction to men and women. But many bisexual people define their attraction as being to their own gender and other genders, including nonbinary and gender-diverse people. - “Bisexual people are more likely to cheat or be unfaithful.”
This is rooted in harmful stereotypes. Attraction to more than one gender doesn’t mean someone lacks boundaries, loyalty, or commitment. - “You stop being bisexual once you’re in a relationship.”
A bisexual person dating someone of any gender is still bisexual. Who they’re with doesn’t change their identity. - “Bisexual people have it easier because they can ‘pass’ as straight.”
While some bi people may be perceived as straight depending on their partner, this can lead to erasure and isolation, not privilege.
Many bisexual people report feeling invisible, even in queer spaces. They may face pressure to “pick a side,” or feel erased when in monogamous relationships. Bi people also experience higher rates of mental health struggles, often due to this lack of visibility and validation. That’s why it’s important to make room for bisexual voices and celebrate bisexuality as a vibrant part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Bisexuality is real, valid, and diverse. It challenges the idea that attraction must follow strict rules or binaries. Bi people experience love, desire, and connection in unique and expansive ways. By learning what bisexuality truly means, we can help make space for everyone to be seen, supported, and celebrated, no matter who they love.
Glossary Term
Bisexual: A sexual orientation characterized by attraction to people of both one’s own gender and other genders.
Sources
The Trevor Project – Bisexual Youth Mental Health Brief
