LGBT

Am I Bisexual?

Bisexual people are attracted to both men and women. A bisexual person may not be equally attracted to both sexes, however, and the degree of attraction may vary over time as one's sexual identity develops. No "test" exists to determine whether you are bisexual. Some people acknowledge their bisexuality after a period of identifying as gay or lesbian.

At first, you may not know what to call your sexual feelings or whether you feel sufficiently attracted to both sexes to consider yourself bisexual- but there's no measuring stick to decide what amount of attraction to other genders is necessary to identify as bisexual. In addition, you may hear some of the common myths about bisexual people- they can't make up their minds; they can't commit to long-term relationships. Don't listen. And don't feel you need to hurry into a decision. Coming out- whether you are gay, lesbian. bisexual or transgender- is a precious journey.

The Facts about Sexuality and Gender Identity

No one knows how many people are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. The most reputable estimates are skewed by the fact that many people are afraid or unwilling during surveys to identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender -- even when assured of anonymity. Whatever the numbers, the facts are the same.

Your Sexuality or Gender Identity Is Not a Choice. It Chooses You.

Some people say that sexuality or gender identity is a choice to discourage you from gay or lesbian relationships or from being comfortable with expressing your gender in the way that feels right to you. But think about it for a minute: Did you choose to have feelings of same-sex attraction? Did you choose your sex at birth? Sexuality and gender identity are not choices any more than being left-handed or having brown eyes or being heterosexual are choices. They are a part of who you are. The choice is in deciding how to live your life.

It's OK to Be Yourself.

In the 1970s, the American Psychological Association and the American Psychiatric Association revised their positions on homosexuality. Both determined that homosexuality is not a mental disorder. In 1994, the American Medical Association released a statement saying, "Most of the emotional disturbance experienced by gay men and lesbians around their sexual identity is not based on physiological causes but rather is due more to a sense of alienation in an unaccepting environment."

Nonetheless, some people might try to tell you that you are sick and that you need professional help to "change." No scientifically valid evidence exists that shows that people can change their sexual orientation, although some people do repress it. The most reputable medical and psychotherapeutic groups say you should not try to change your sexual orientation.

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