Biphobia: Description, impacts on wellbeing, locating assistance, and further insights
In the realm of sexual orientation, bisexuality often faces unique challenges and stigmas. There are several organizations, such as the American Institute of Bisexuality, BiNet USA, Bisexual Resource Center, and Boston Bisexual Women's Network, that offer support for those who identify as bisexual.
However, research suggests that bisexual individuals may encounter a higher risk of mental health conditions, sexual health issues, and substance use disorders. One of the contributing factors to these risks is internalized monosexism, a phenomenon where a person who is bisexual has internalized negative ideas about their sexual identity.
Examples of internalized monosexism include believing that one's sexual orientation is a phase, or that people with bisexual orientation are sexually promiscuous or incapable of maintaining monogamous relationships. These beliefs can lead to feelings of isolation, self-stigma, and identity confusion.
Monosexism, the belief that people should only be attracted to and have relationships with one gender, can exacerbate these issues. By invalidating or marginalizing bisexual identities, monosexism contributes to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and minority stress among bisexual people.
Chronic stress caused by discrimination and invalidation can also lead to poorer physical health outcomes, such as increased risk for cardiovascular issues and weakened immune response. Stress-related health problems are commonly reported in bisexual populations facing monosexist attitudes.
Monosexism can also create barriers to open communication with partners and healthcare providers, potentially leading to lower sexual satisfaction and higher vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to less tailored sexual health education and services.
Overall, monosexism acts as a form of structural and interpersonal stigma that undermines bisexual individuals' holistic health and access to support. For further personalized or clinical perspectives, therapists like Cara L. Lipford acknowledge the impact of monosexism in their work with clients.
It is crucial to challenge monosexism and promote acceptance and understanding of bisexual identities to improve the well-being and health outcomes of bisexual individuals. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, we can help reduce the stigma and discrimination faced by bisexual people and pave the way for a healthier, more equitable society.
[1] Lipford, C. L. (2021). Navigating the Invisibility of Bisexuality: Therapeutic Implications and Strategies for Clinicians. Journal of LGBT Issues in Counseling, 15(3), 129-142. doi: 10.1080/15538605.2021.1906946
- In the field of health and wellness, it's essential to address and understand the unique mental health challenges that bisexual individuals may face due to internalized monosexism and monosexist beliefs.
- The realm of scientific research should prioritize investigating the higher risks of sexual health issues and substance use disorders experienced by bisexual individuals, with a focus on understanding the role of internalized monosexism in these issues.
- To promote overall health and well-being, fitness and exercise programs should consider the impact of monosexism and strive for inclusivity and understanding of bisexual sexual identities, addressing the potential barriers faced by this community in open communication and access to tailored sexual health education and services.
