Some people are attracted to women; some are attracted to men. And some, if Sigmund Freud, Dr. Alfred Kinsey and millions of self-described bisexuals are to be believed, are drawn to both sexes.

But a new study casts doubt on whether true bisexuality exists, at least in men.

The study, by a team of psychologists in Chicago and Toronto, lends support to those who have long been skeptical that bisexuality is a distinct and stable sexual orientation.

People who claim bisexuality, according to these critics, are usually homosexual, but are ambivalent about their homosexuality or simply closeted. "You're either gay, straight or lying," as some gay men have put it.

In the new study, a team of psychologists directly measured genital arousal patterns in response to images of men and women. The psychologists found that men who identified themselves as bisexual were in fact exclusively aroused by either one sex or the other, usually by other men.

The study is the largest of several small reports suggesting that the estimated 1.7 percent of men who identify themselves as bisexual show physical attraction patterns that differ substantially from their professed desires.

"Research on sexual orientation has been based almost entirely on self-reports, and this is one of the few good studies using physiological measures," said Dr. Lisa Diamond, an associate professor of psychology and gender identity at the University of Utah, who was not involved in the study.

SUICIDALITY PROBLEMS OF GAY AND BISEXUAL MALES: EVIDENCE FROM A RANDOM COMMUNITY SURVEY OF 750 MEN AGED 18 TO 27

A stratified random sample of 750 males aged 18 to 27 in Calgary, Canada included questions on sexual activity and orientation. Mental health questions included a measure of suicidality, and of acts of deliberate self-harm. A computerized response format (established as a good method for eliciting sensitive personal data) ensured anonymity. Almost 13 percent of males were classified homosexual or bisexual on the basis of being currently homosexually active and/or by self-identification. Significantly higher rates of past suicidal ideas and action were reported by homosexually oriented males compared to heterosexual males. These findings, indicating that homosexual and bisexual males are 13.9 times more at risk for a serious suicide attempt, are consonant with previous findings. Homosexually oriented males accounted for 62.5 percent of suicide attempters. We speculate that the predominant reason for the suicidality of these young males may be linked to the "coming out" process occurring in a highly homophobic society. Related issues are resolved for some, but may not be for others having high levels of current depression. These results underscore the need for qualified services rarely available to homosexually oriented youth.


by : Christopher Bagley, Ph.D. and Pierre Tremblay, B.Sc., B.Ed. Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary

How do I know if someone else is bisexual?

The short answer is that you probably won't know until someone tells you - you can't tell whether a man or woman or a transgendered person is bisexual just by looking at them. Bisexual people come in all shapes and sizes. You cannot tell a bisexual person by the gender of their partner or the friends they keep. It is important to remember that if you identify as bisexual, how you look is up to you, just the same as if you are heterosexual, gay or lesbian. How you dress and how you behave is about your personal identity, not a stereotype.

How do I know if I'm bisexual?

There is no easy answer to this question. You can't fill in a questionnaire or do a test that will give you a definite answer. You might be bisexual if you recognise that you have feelings of attraction for women and men at the same time, but this does not necessarily have to be at the same time or intensity. What is important is that you don't deny your feelings and that you take time, at your own pace, to explore your sexuality and what being bisexual might mean to you.

It is also important to remember that you are definitely not alone, and you don't have to deal with your questions or problems alone. Try talking to one of the confidential services listed below if you are feeling concerned. And if someone tells you that bisexuals are really confused, or that bisexuals do not exist, or that they can't help you, look for someone else to talk to who does understand and care.

BISEXUAL EXPERIENCE

HELP

Ever since 5th grade I’ve been seeing girls differently, not in a sexual way, but, the way I see guys. I’d stare if they’re completely gorgeous, blush if I get nervous around them, trip, fall, look stupid in front of the ones I find attractive/cute.
I’ve tried dating a girl once, her name was Stephanie. She was my first girlfriend (from school). It was awkward and only my closest friends knew about it, but I ended up not really liking her that way. Eh, she was too fast. She just wanted me for my body, etc;
I’ve dated many girls online, and by text, but, it’s a lot different in real life, because you never know who’s going to turn their back on you for the last time.
I like girls more than guys, to be honest. I have like, a penisaphobia kind of thing. They scare me. But I love guys, as individuals. I’m just not into the whole, “sex thing” with them.
I’ve never kissed a girl before, and I got my first kiss from a boy last summer (of 2008).
My mom has asked me multiple times if I was gay (homosexual). I said no, because it’s true. I’m not. Im bisexual. My mom and I aren’t very close like I wish we were. My dad left us and I have a super nosey sister who seems to not be able to stay out of my business.
I write songs to express all the stress I have in this life time. I used to cut myself, not very smart, I know. My mom sent me to a counselor and I feel a bit better now. I haven’t cut in almost a year! it’s been 9 months.
But, my mom found out because of the scars. I ended up writing her letters a lot now a days. It seems like the easiest way to let out what’s on my mind. That’s how I explained the fact of why I cut myself and why I hated my life. No dad, no friends, the usual bullies and evil sister.
But, I’m scared to write a letter to my mom about being bisexual, even though she thinks I’m gay. She’s getting there I guess. I’m WAY too freaked out to talk to her. What should I do?

What Causes Bisexuality?

A recent study by Ron Fox of more than 900 bisexual individuals found that one out of every three had previously identified themselves as lesbian or gay. Bisexuality, like homosexuality and heterosexuality,may be either a transitional step in the process of sexual discovery or a stable, long-term identity.

The first cause could be the same issues that contribute to forming a homosexual orientation, such as neglectful same-sex parenting, peer rejection and sexual abuse.

Second, one may participate in bisexuality because they were introduced to that kind of behavior. Sometimes when parents don't provide any healthy guidelines or morals to follow, when there are opportunities for bisexuality, they may experiment with same sex with both genders.

Third, an individual may be drawn to bisexuality because they are narcissistic; they want both sexes to find them appealing.

Lastly, the value placed on one's sexual identity should not depend on its origin. Many people assume that bisexuality is just a phase people go through. In fact, any sexual orientation can be described as a phase.