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Prejudice, Myths, and Misconceptions
Throughout this modern era, along with those in the Gay Community, Bisexuals have been victims of harassment, prejudice, and bigotry. Similar to our gay peers, we have also been subjected to numerous, damaging myths and stereotypes. As with homophobia, internalized and externalized "biphobia" takes a toll on the psyche and retards growth towards a healthy sexuality and self-image. Bisexuals have to deal with numerous common stereotypes, misconceptions, and myths widely held by both the "straight" and (unfortunately too often) members of our own GLBT Community.
Some of the more pervasive myths include:
Bisexuality is not a "legitimate" or "true" sexual orientation.
Bisexuals are promiscuous and/or incapable of being monogamous.
Bisexuals are simply in transition--a temporary stage on the way to homosexuality.
Bisexuals are devious and deceitful.
Bisexuals cannot commit.
Bisexuals are living in denial of their true Gay or Lesbian sexual orientation.
Bisexuals cannot be trusted.
Bisexuals only engage in polyamorous activities ore relationships.
Bisexuals are "equally" attracted to either sex (50/50).
Is Bisexuality a "True" Sexual Orientation?
These are a sampling of the many damaging biphobic myths and stereotypes that our current culture holds. As in any steroetype there usually are "kernels of truth" that do not tell the whole story. An example of this would be that for some who are questioning their sexual orientation, bisexuality is a transitory stop or temporary "weigh station" on the way to identifying as Gay or Lesbian.
That said, it is equally true for others to come to realize and accept their Bisexual identity as a legitimate sexual orientation which best defines their sexuality and who they are as a person. When this occurs, these individuals are being congruent with the fact that they have been and continue to be attracted to both genders. For those who ultimately self-identify as bisexual, to attempt to change one's authentic sexual orientation is just as abhorrent and impossible as it would be to demand that a person who is gay or lesbian become "straight" or, conversely, that a straight person become "gay".
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