Bisexual myths and Biphobia

More people are identifying as bisexual - yet many of us don't really know what this sexual preference actually means. The Mix dispels some myths.

There are a lot of misconceptions about bisexuality. Biphobia meaning prejudice against bisexual people is sadly still a thing. The Mix is here to bust some bisexual myths and do our bit to put an end to biphobia.

Bisexuals have to like both men and women equally

Wrong – There is no right or wrong way to be bisexual. You are the person who determines your sexuality. If you only date girls but are also attracted to guys, you can be bisexual. The same goes for people who date guys, but still like girls.

Some people believe that your sexuality is always changing. If you are bisexual, you could be attracted to men and women at different points in your life. It is the individual you find attractive, not their gender. This identity can also be known as pansexual.

Sidenote: Bisexuals and pansexuals can identify as and can also be attracted to trans, gender fluid and non-binary people.

What is pansexuality? Read this.

Bisexuals are promiscuous and can’t have relationships

Wrong – News flash: a bisexual can fall in love and have a monogamous relationship. If your partner is bisexual, it might mean they feel attracted to guys and girls, but it doesn’t mean they will be unfaithful, or to expect you to accept another person in to your love life.

Side note: You can also choose to be in a relationship with more than one person. When all parties consent to the arrangement, this is referred to as polyamory and is also a valid way of having relationships.

Learn more about the meaning of polyamory.

Bisexual people are just playing around, they can choose to be straight

Wrong – You don’t choose your sexual orientation, you just feel it, whether you’re straight, gay or bi. If you are a bisexual man, for example, and fall in love with a woman, that doesn’t automatically make you straight.

Bisexual people are just denying that they are gay

Wrong – Being bisexual is different to being lesbian or gay. However, because your sexuality can change over time, it is possible to be bisexual for a while and then to be gay or straight. But many bisexual people identify as bisexual for their whole lives.