Sexual orientation can cover a gambit of proclivities ranging from exclusively heterosexual to totally homosexual, report researchers at the American Psychological Association (APA). Those who are attracted to both sexes are considered to be bisexual. A bisexual person can be either a man or a woman.
History
The APA reports that sexual orientation usually is defined by the time a person enters middle school or by early adolescence. Attraction is apparent on many levels that include emotional, romantic and sexual. While prejudice and social norms may interfere with a young person's sexual identity, doctors at the APA report that sexual orientation results from a combination of social, genetic, hormonal and cultural influences.
Effects
Doctors at Harvard University Medical Services report that bisexual patients often have special needs that might include sexual health and risk for certain sexually transmitted diseases. Bisexual patients also require individual mental health services and support that could include facing discrimination, coming out and internalized homophobia.
Identification
Bisexuals are not mentally disturbed, report doctors at the American Psychological Association. There is no evidence that bisexuality or homosexuality is related to any psychopathology. Identifying as a bisexual person is a normal part of the human existence and is considered a form of human bonding. There is no therapy that has been proven effective in changing a person's sexual preferences.
Benefits
Research supports the notion that people who are forthcoming about their bisexuality are healthier and more well-adjusted than those who keep their sexuality a secret, APA doctors report. Coming out involves telling others about being bisexual, identifying with other bisexuals and becoming a part of the gay community. Those who are open about their bisexuality can receive support from family, friends and a community that can help to maintain a person's psychological well-being.
Considerations
Bisexuality may be a transition phase for some people as they work to define their homosexual or heterosexual identity, report counselors at Duke University's Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Life. For others who realize they are bisexual, confusion often stems from the lack of acceptance by either the straight or gay community. In fact, most bisexual people are more strongly attracted to one sex, but feel ambivalence about the other gender group.
