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Monogamy verses Non-Monogamy

A second example would be the common stereotype or myth that bisexuals, by nature, are non-monogamous. Once again, while there are bisexuals who choose monogamy there are also those who choose to be non-monogamous. Monogamy, however, is a separate issue from sexual orientation. The choice of a monogamous or non-monogamous relationship or lifestyle is a truly personal decision made individually or jointly within a partnership. That said, however, monogamy is hardly an issue confined to bisexuals. Outside relationships are either secretly or openly practiced by many members of both the heterosexual and gay communities. To make this solely a bisexual characteristic is the epitome of hypocrisy and denial.


Bisexuals as part of the Greater Gay Community

That said, many of us as bisexuals choose to openly and proudly identify with our gay "brothers" and lesbian "sisters" as part of a greater Gay community. As bisexuals, and an oppressed sexual minority, our struggles are similar to others in the GLBT community and in many ways our beliefs and feelings resonate. Indeed, there are many more areas of commonality between Bisexuals and our Gay and Lesbian compatriots than there are differences. Yet, there are important distinctions which should not, and cannot, be ignored. Along with embracing our similarities, it is also important for us, as bisexuals, to acknowledge and realize these differences while engaging in the process of personal growth and therapeutic healing.


Bisexuality and Growth-Oriented Psychotherapy

As a part of that process, many times, the aforementioned stereotypes, beliefs, and myths need to be examined on a personal level. These issues are common to the bisexual experience and are routinely dealt with in counseling or therapy as many of us have internalized societal biases. In addition, bisexuals, many times, feel as if they don't have a "home" or belong to a "community". These issues, likewise, surface regularly in counseling and are part of the self-exploration process. In addition, issues around honesty, relationships, and the coming-out process are commonly addressed.

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