Bisexuality is a broad and inclusive term that describes physical attraction, romantic attraction, or sexual behavior that is not limited to one sex. In the scientific language of sexual orientation, bisexuality encompasses both heterosexual (different sex) and homosexual (same-sex) attraction or behavior. In everyday language, depending on the speaker’s culture, background, and politics, that translates into a variety of popular definitions such as:
- Attraction to men and women.
- Attraction to both sexes.
- Attraction regardless of sex.
Some important points to note:
- A bi person may be attracted to the sexes in different ways.
- A bi person may be attracted to one sex more than others.
- A bi person may be attracted to one sex at some times and not others.
In other words, there are as many ways to be bisexual as there are bi people, just like any other sexuality.
Bisexuality is a broad and inclusive term that describes physical attraction, romantic attraction, or sexual behavior that is not limited to one sex. In the scientific language of sexual orientation, bisexuality encompasses both heterosexual (opposite sex) and homosexual (same-sex) attraction or behavior.
Please note that saying "both heterosexual (opposite sex) and homosexual (same-sex) attraction or behavior" is very different from saying bi means part straight and part gay. Attraction, identity, and behavior are the three main components of sexual orientation, and they each mean different things.
In everyday language, depending on the speaker’s culture, background, and politics, that translates into a variety of popular definitions such as:
- Attraction to men and women.
- Attraction to both sexes.
- Attraction regardless of sex.
Some important points to note:
- A bi person may be attracted to each sex in different ways.
- A bi person may be attracted to one sex more than others.
- A bi person may be attracted to one sex at some times and not others.
In other words, there are as many ways to be bisexual as there are bi people, just like any other sexuality.
Bisexuality is a dynamic spectrum that includes all sexuality that isn't limited to one sex. In terms of the Kinsey Scale, that means everything between mostly straight and mostly gay/lesbian. Because of that tremendous variety, there are different terms that people within that spectrum may use to describe their identity. Or people may not use any terms at all. Just like heterosexuality, homosexuality, and asexuality, bisexuality is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of relationships, lifestyles, and personal preferences. It also covers a wide range of attachment styles. A bi person's sexuality does not change to straight or gay (or anything else) depending upon the sex of their partner; even if they are in a long-term monogamous relationship, a bi person is still bi.