How can I figure out if I am bisexual, or if I am just going through a phase?
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If you are sexually attracted to both males and females, then you are bisexual. It doesn't have to be equal attraction to both - you could be 80% into guys and only 20% into girls, that's okay. Also, there's a difference between being sexually attracted to both sexes and romantically attracted to both sexes. Some bisexual people are only interested in romantic relationships with one of the sexes, but that doesn't change the fact that they are bisexual. For some people, sexuality changes as they grow in life - that is okay too.
Anonymous - Expert in LGBTQ+ Issues
March 1st, 2016 3:46am
Well, for me, I pictured it as, who would I see myself with long-term. Short term, I thought I was bi, because I would feel attraction to males and females, but long term, I could only see myself with a man. Usually, everyone finds out in different ways. Just keep going through it, you'll find your answer eventually.
You don't have to figure anything out. If you are interested in boys and girls right now, then you're bisexual right now. Sexuality is fluid and can change over time, whether it's a "phase" or not.
Sexuality isn't something static! It goes changing with you as you grow up. You can change your sexuality (it isn't your choice, though, it just changes). If you NOW feel bisexual, you might be. If tomorrow you feel heterosexual let it be! And if you ever feel asexual or homosexual, demisexual or whatever, it is what should be. Sexuality is made out from phases, so don't be afraid to be through one of them! And whenever someone tells you "it's just a phase", turn out and tell them: "Yeah, it's a phase, but I don't know how many time it will last!".
you don't need to put a label on yourself. it's even better if you don't, actually... it gives you freedom.
Anonymous
December 8th, 2017 12:50am
Here are some signs you are bisexual.
You almost kissed the same sex
You had a crush on someone of the same sex even if it was a short amount of time
You told someone you are sexually confused
You make jokes you are bisexual
You said you bisexual
You told someone of the same sex you were going to kiss them
These are scientifically proven. THIS IS NOT FAKE! If you have most of these signs you have a 99% chance of being Gay or Bisexual
Unfortunately, sometimes it will take you a while to truly realize how you feel. Just keep in mind, it's perfectly okay to question who you are and how you really feel, and it may certainly take time. Give yourself as much time as you need to figure yourself out, and eventually it'll all fall into place. And remember, those who support you will always love you for who you are, regardless of what you discover or identify as.
Do you feel sexual attraction toward both genders? If this is the case, you are most probably bisexual. Personally, I am a bisexual female but I am more attracted to men and have only every had one same sex relationship, that does not count as a phase. Sexual attraction does not need to be even for you to be bisexual.
Time will tell, Sexuality is a fluid concept which can change at any time. No labels are required.
The only true way to know if you are bisexual or just going through a phase is to experiment. Try new things and meet new people. Time will help you figure things out, and remember to be true to yourself.
That mentioned 'phase' does not exist. Sexuality is not a choice or a phase. If you are truely bisexual, you will know it well.
Anonymous
January 29th, 2018 5:48pm
I don’t know how much I believe that people go through “phasesâ€. It’s something my parents told me when I tried to come out as bisexual. The best way you can tell is to ask yourself would I be comfortable engaging in sex with both males and females? Have I ever experienced romantic feelings for the same gender and the opposite? Can I picture myself in a relationship with someone of the same sex/someone of the opposite sex? I hope this was helpful, if not I’ll provide this link to a page that might assist you further :) http://www.bisexualindex.org.uk/index.php/AmIBisexual
Anonymous
June 17th, 2015 8:46pm
Bisexuality can seem "like a phase" on occasion, but the easiest way to tell if you are is by searching deep within and determining whom you are sexually attracted to. If you are sexually attracted to members of both the male and female gender then you are bisexual.
Giving it time. There's no magic method to figuring this out truthfully. Regardless if its a phase for now, your feelings feel real now. If being bi is just a phase for someone, it doesn't mean they were lying. It means they were discover who they were and tested out new waters. Don't be afraid to find your true self.
This just comes with experience. It is not something you should worry about though. When you fall in love with someone, man or woman, it will no longer matter if you are bisexual. You get to choose who you will end up with.
Anonymous
February 22nd, 2016 1:01pm
If you are sexually attractive to both genders, then you are considered as a bisexual. Besides, I highly doubt that there's "going through a phase" kind of situation. Sure, there are curious beings who experiment their promiscuity, but it isn't a phase.
Sometimes, giving it time is the best way to tell. At first, I thought that maybe my sexuality was a phase, but as time went on, I grew to realize that it's who I really am. You may find the same - or you may find the opposite. There's no rush to figure it all out right away. Just keep living your life and pay attention, because one day, you won't have to guess - you'll know.
If you feel attracted to more than one gender, if imagining yourself with people of different genders gives you a good feelings at a physical and emotional level, you are bisexual. Sexualities are not phases, questioning is a phase, and this is where you are right now. But if, after this exploration of your own feelings, desires, emotions and needs, you find out that you are attracted to more than one gender, then you are bi.
Being bisexual can be confusing to most, in my eyes it's when you feel comfortable having a relationship with either sex. Like any sexuality, I personally feel it's something you need to try and experience for yourself. There really isn't a checklist that you check and thus be able to label yourself a certain way, it's something you need to experience for yourself.
I mean, in all honesty, if you labeled yourself as bisexual, but only dated a certain gender, it still wouldn't matter too much, you're never locked into a label that you or others put upon you and you should just be free! :)
Anonymous
May 2nd, 2016 4:45pm
Are you attracted to 2 or more genders? Congrats, you're bisexual! Also, sexuality can be fluid: It's alright if it changes, you are legitimate as you are right now.
Bisexuality takes time before you realize this, the stronger the attraction the bigger the chance of being one, honestly we should consult others to know if you fall in the category , try asking yourself about what your feelings towards other. Then you will know the answer to this
What you identify as is valid for who you are right now. It is possible for your identity to change in time but that doesn't mean it's a phase or any less real right now.
More important than figuring out your sexual orientation, it is important that you feel good with yourself and that whatever your sexual practices are or whoever your partners are, you feel good and respected.
Anonymous
July 13th, 2020 3:19pm
If you feel attraction to the same sex as you do the opposite, then yes you may be bisexual. Many people will tell you its "just a phase" and will say many other biphobic comments but stay true to your journey and don't let other's biphobia stand it the way. You will figure it out, no rush - no pressure. Bisexuality is not 50/50 - it might be for you, but it's okay if not. I knew liked both girls and boys from a very young age. If it is "just a phase" then my phase has lasted 24 long years! :)
In all honestly, it doesn't matter if it's a "phase." What matters is accepting yourself in the present moment, and to remember that sexual/romantic orientation is fluid. It's susceptible to subconsciously change over time, and that's okay. Being bi simply means that you have the capacity to experience romantic and/or sexual attraction to people of two or more genders. Your dating history or current/soon-to-be partner has nothing to do with it. It doesn't have to be equal attraction either--I'm super picky with guys, but have almost no type when it comes to women because women are just great. It's important to accept your likes and disikes as well as your identity in all stages of life
Determining if one is bisexual or simply going through a phase is an intimate process that needs introspection and time. Start by freeing yourself to examine your feelings without pressure or judgment. Pay attention over time to moments when you have sexual attractions and emotional attachments, seeing if your interest in people from the opposite sex continues. It can be helpful speaking with others who’ve undergone similar situations or consulting with a sexuality therapist. Still, keep in mind that there are no fixed sexual orientations; it always keeps changing shape and rearranging its features in one’s life. Although we do understand how important it is for one to be true to his/her real self, this knowledge may come at any time depending on how fast one grasps it. Trust yourself and know that it’s fine to take all the time you need because you will eventually discover what resonates with you best.
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