Bisexual erasure refers to the dismissal or denial of bisexuality as a valid sexual identity. The harmful stereotypes surrounding bisexuality can have negative consequences on the mental and physical health of those who identify as bisexual. Despite the growing recognition of bisexuality, erasure continues to be a significant challenge. Here’s an in-depth look at what bisexual erasure is, how it affects health, and how we can end it.
What Is Bisexuality?
Bisexuality is defined as the emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to more than one gender. Unlike the idea of bisexuality being a “phase,” being bisexual is a legitimate sexual orientation. Research indicates that bisexual individuals can have meaningful relationships with multiple genders, and they may not experience equal attraction to all genders. It's important to recognize bisexuality as a distinct identity, rather than simply an intermediary phase between being straight and gay.
The Impact of Bisexual Erasure on Health
Bisexual erasure not only invalidates a person's identity but also contributes to negative health outcomes. Research has shown that bisexual people experience higher rates of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder, compared to heterosexual and gay/lesbian individuals.
Mental Health Issues
Bisexual erasure is a form of stigma that can lead to isolation and lower self-esteem. It can also contribute to an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that bisexual individuals often experience higher levels of discrimination, which can result in poorer mental health outcomes. This rejection can make it harder for bisexual people to feel supported or find communities where they can express themselves freely.
Poorer Health Outcomes
In addition to mental health challenges, bisexual individuals often face poorer physical health outcomes compared to others. They are less likely to receive preventive health care and screenings, which can lead to late-stage diagnoses and worsened health conditions. For instance, bisexual women are less likely to undergo routine screenings for breast, colorectal, and cervical cancer. Moreover, bisexual individuals may also experience higher rates of obesity, smoking, and heart disease due to the stress of stigma.
The Role of Stereotypes and Misconceptions
There are many misconceptions about bisexuality, and these stereotypes often contribute to its erasure. Common myths include:
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"Bisexuality is just a phase."
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"They’re just confused or experimenting."
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"Bisexual people are just looking for attention."
These misconceptions lead people to believe that bisexuality isn’t a legitimate identity. Bisexual erasure occurs when these harmful stereotypes are perpetuated, making bisexual people feel invalidated. The reality is that bisexuality is a valid and lasting sexual orientation, and it deserves recognition and respect.
Bisexuality vs. Pansexuality
While bisexuality and pansexuality share similarities, they are distinct identities. Pansexuality refers to people who are attracted to individuals regardless of their gender. For bisexual individuals, attraction is to more than one gender, but not necessarily all genders in equal measure. Both identities deserve acknowledgment, and one does not erase the other. The key is to respect and understand each person’s self-identified label and the experiences that come with it.
Why Bisexual Erasure Happens
Bisexual erasure is often a result of societal and cultural biases that focus on binary thinking. People may find it difficult to accept that sexual attraction doesn’t have to be an either-or situation. Society's reliance on clear-cut categories—straight, gay, or lesbian—leaves little room for people to identify as bisexual.
The dominant culture often fails to acknowledge the existence of bisexuality, further isolating those who identify as such. This lack of understanding perpetuates a harmful narrative and contributes to the erasure of bisexual people from conversations about sexual identity.
How Does Bisexual Erasure Affect Health?
The erasure of bisexuality leads to real-world consequences for those who identify as bisexual. As previously mentioned, bisexual individuals face higher rates of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and substance use. These issues are often exacerbated by the stigma and lack of understanding about bisexuality.
Moreover, bisexual people face unique challenges in accessing proper healthcare. Healthcare providers may make assumptions about a person's sexual orientation based on their partner(s), which can lead to misdiagnoses or missed opportunities for care. A lack of recognition and understanding in medical settings often results in bisexual individuals receiving inadequate healthcare.
Mental Health Disparities
The stigma surrounding bisexuality and the resulting erasure contribute to heightened mental health challenges. Bisexual individuals often face discrimination, both within the LGBTQ+ community and from the broader society. This discrimination can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and low self-worth.
Health Care Barriers
Bisexual individuals may be less likely to receive comprehensive healthcare due to the assumption that they are either straight or gay. This can prevent bisexual people from accessing critical screenings and health advice tailored to their specific needs.
Breaking Down the Barriers: How to Be an Ally
To end bisexual erasure, it is important to acknowledge the existence and validity of bisexuality. Allies can play a key role in this process by recognizing and addressing the stereotypes and misconceptions that perpetuate bisexual erasure. Here are some steps to be a supportive ally:
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Use inclusive language: When referring to sexual orientation, be mindful to use terms that include bisexuality. Instead of saying "gay and lesbian," say "LGBTQ+," which encompasses the bisexual community.
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Challenge biphobic statements: Call out derogatory comments about bisexuality when you hear them. Whether it’s a joke or a stereotype, speaking up helps combat the erasure of bisexual people.
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Support bisexual advocacy: Get involved with organizations that support bisexual visibility and work to address the specific needs of bisexual individuals.
A Quick Review
Bisexual erasure is a form of stigma that negatively affects both the mental and physical health of bisexual individuals. It leads to greater rates of mental health challenges, inadequate healthcare, and societal isolation. By recognizing bisexuality as a legitimate sexual orientation and supporting bisexual advocacy, we can begin to break down the barriers of erasure and create a more inclusive environment for all sexual identities.
