Bisexual facts to know and myths to break now

Bisexuality is one of those words that everyone thinks they know what it means, but in the end finds out they don’t. Thus, many end up just reproducing stereotypes and untruths. To better understand the term, check out the information of a psychologist and clarify your doubts on the subject.

what is bisexuality

According to psychologist Yasmin Modesto (CRP O8/28759), bisexuality is a sexual orientation where there is an interest in affective, sexual or loving relationships with people of the same or different genders. In addition, the professional also explains that “following the psychoanalytic line, Freud defines that all beings are born bisexual. Subsequently, they identify in their individuality with the genre(s) capable of generating pleasure”.

10 facts and myths about bisexuality

Bisexuality is still surrounded by prejudices and myths, not only because they are relationships that are not considered within the hetero and cisnormativity, but also because they suffer discrimination within the LGBT community itself. In this sense, here is a list of facts and myths on the subject:

1. “Bisexuals are indecisive, have unresolved issues or incomplete relationships” Myth. If for some people it’s okay to be attracted to people of different physical characteristics, for bisexuals it just includes gender.
2. “Bisexuals are promiscuous” Myth. According to the psychologist, there is an idealization of three-way relationships involving bisexuals and various pornographic constructions. However, she claims that this is nothing more than a stereotype. That is, anyone can be promiscuous, regardless of sexual orientation.
3. “Bisexuals can have monogamous relationships and demonstrate fidelity” Fact. As with anyone else, bisexuals’ behavior is varied. That is, those who are bi can have casual, long-term relationships or spend their entire lives without any partner.
4. “Bisexuals are homosexuals who do not fully accept each other” Myth. Who said that people need to be in boxes, and that there is only heterosexuality and homosexuality? Bisexuality is a sexual orientation too. It exists and is legitimate.
5. “There is an invisibility of bisexuals” Fact. That is, bisexuals are not gay, lesbian, or straight. They are bisexual. In addition to prejudice, the psychologist explains that people do not believe that bisexuals really exist.
6. “Bisexuals also have mental health risks” Fact. In short, the psychologist says that invisibility and other sexuality issues can cause self-confidence shakes and harm the mental health of these individuals.
7. “Bisexuals don’t suffer in a straight relationship” Myth. Just to exemplify, the professional reports that within her clinical practice, she observes the stereotype that bisexuals are not faithful or are in constant hypersexualization. Even in a straight relationship, there are reports of abuse due to bisexuality.
8. “Biphobia exists and it has a high cost for bisexuals” Fact. That is, bisexuals are also assaulted and suffer psychological violence.
9. “There are reports of biphobia within the LGBTQ+ community itself” Fact. Although the letter B is related to bisexuality, prejudice against bisexuals happens within the LGBT community itself. This is because there is the invisibility of bisexuals and the disbelief regarding the sexual orientation of these people.
10. “Being bisexual is not betraying gay or lesbian activism/community” Fact. In this sense, they say that bisexuals pass for straight when it’s convenient for them and that this avoids problems by maintaining a privilege. However, if the bisexual pretends to be straight, it’s for protection, just like gays and lesbians can. Certainly, recognizing this privilege and still fighting for LGBTQ+ causes is possible.

Trying to understand and talk about the myths and facts of bisexuality is healthy and brings visibility to the topic. Especially since being bisexual still means being surrounded by taboos and discrimination on all sides. If you want to delve even further, follow the topic below!

Experiences with bisexuality

Hearing reports from different perspectives on bisexuality is a way to empathize and find out more about this much-needed topic. So, check out a selection of videos with different experiences:

The process of discovering bisexuality

On Bisexual Visibility Day, Milena shares her experience in the process of discovering bisexual. With a sincere account, she tells about the uncertainties and questions she had until she identified and accepted herself. Despite commenting that, in her case, it was a very natural process, she also talks about the problem of the fetishization of female bisexuality.

Bisexual experiences and issues in class with activists

In this episode of Canal das Bee, Jessica talks with the bisexual activist and researcher on gender and sexuality, Regina Facchini, and with Magô Tonhom, from Canal Voz Trans. Together, they explain the reality of bisexuals and question what they call “straight delusional self-esteem and cisnormativity”. Play and enjoy the video!

Myths and truths with reports of bisexual experience

In this video, Klébio Dantas tells how he came to be identified as bisexual. In addition, he takes the opportunity to share, from his perspective, some myths and truths about the subject.

Bisexuality from different perspectives

Celebrating LGBTQI Pride Day, Ellora invites two bisexual friends to share their stories. The three had very different experiences, and take the opportunity to talk about how their individual discovery was and also talk about the prejudice they experience and the invisibility of the cause.

The Pain and Pleasure of Being Bisexual

Luiza and Felipe have a super relaxed chat about bisexuality, going through the pains and delights of finding themselves in their sexuality. They talk about the most common issues they faced, such as the process of self-acceptance, prejudices and invisibility.

Interested in learning more about bisexuality? You can also check out suggestions for LGBTQ+ movies. Support the cause and bring more visibility to the topic! Share the article on your friends and discussions circle.