An Exploration of Panromantic Bisexuality: Things You Should Know

‘Panromantic Bisexual’ is one such term that captures a distinct aspect of the vast spectrum. It is for those who feel romantic attraction towards people of all genders but experience sexual attraction exclusively to men and women. This blog aims to create an open space for dialogue, to navigate the often misunderstood intersection of romantic and sexual identities, and specifically, to shed light on what it means to identify as panromantic bisexual.

What Does Panromantic Bisexual Mean?

“Panromantic Bisexual” is a term that describes a specific combination of romantic and sexual orientation.

Panromantic: This refers to a person’s romantic orientation. Someone who is panromantic feels capable of being romantically attracted to people of all gender identities. That means they could be romantically interested in men, women, and people who identify outside the binary male/female system. Such as those who are non-binary, genderqueer, or genderfluid.

Bisexual: This refers to a person’s sexual orientation. A bisexual person is sexually attracted to both men and women. Bisexuality doesn’t necessarily mean equal attraction to both genders. And some bisexual people may feel they’re on a spectrum where they’re attracted to one gender more than the other.

Therefore, a panromantic bisexual person is someone who may feel romantic attraction toward individuals of all genders. But their sexual attraction is only towards men and women. It’s important to understand that romantic and sexual attractions don’t always line up perfectly for everyone. And one’s romantic orientation can differ from one’s sexual orientation.

How To Identify A Panromantic Bisexual Individual?

Identifying someone as panromantic bisexual is not something that can be done based on appearances or behaviors. Sexual orientation and romantic orientation are deeply personal aspects of a person’s identity. And can only truly be known when that person chooses to express them.

Someone may identify as panromantic bisexual if they:

• Feel romantic attraction to individuals of all gender identities: They are open to forming emotional and romantic connections with people of any gender. Including those who identify as male, female, non-binary, genderqueer, or any other gender identity.
• Feel sexual attraction to men and women: They experience physical or sexual attraction specifically toward individuals who identify as men or women.

However, it’s crucial to note that the only certain way to know if someone identifies as panromantic bisexual is if they tell you themselves. It’s inappropriate to make assumptions about someone’s sexual or romantic orientation based on limited information or stereotypes. Always respect individuals’ privacy and personal boundaries.

If you are wondering about your own identity and whether you might identify as panromantic bisexual, consider your feelings of attraction (both romantic and sexual) and how they align with the descriptions above. If you’re unsure, speaking with a mental health professional or a counselor who is knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ identities can be very helpful.

What Are Some Myths And Misconceptions Around It?

There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding panromantic bisexuality. Largely due to the limited understanding or lack of awareness about the complexity of romantic and sexual orientations. Here are some common ones:

• Misconception: Panromantic Bisexual Individuals Are Just Confused

Just because someone’s romantic and sexual orientations do not align in a way that is traditionally expected does not mean they are confused. People who identify as panromantic bisexual have a clear understanding of their attractions; they are romantically attracted to all genders and sexually attracted to men and women.

• Myth: Bisexuality Means Equal Attraction to Men and Women

Bisexuality doesn’t necessarily mean equal attraction to both genders. It’s a spectrum, and individuals may feel they lean more toward one gender than the other, or their preferences can fluctuate over time.

• Misconception: Panromantic People Are Attracted to Everyone

Being panromantic means someone has the potential to be romantically attracted to people of all genders. However, like everyone else, panromantic individuals have personal preferences, and standards, and are not romantically attracted to every person they meet.

• Myth: Panromantic Bisexuality Is A Phase

Some people believe that complex identities like panromantic bisexuality are just phases of attention-seeking behavior. In reality, every individual’s understanding of their orientation is deeply personal and should be respected. For some, their identification may evolve over time. But this doesn’t invalidate the authenticity of their current identity.

• Misconception: Panromantic Bisexual People Are More Likely to Cheat

This is based on the harmful stereotype that people who are attracted to multiple genders are promiscuous or unable to commit to a relationship. The reality is that the capacity to cheat is not determined by one’s romantic or sexual orientation. But by individual choices and the dynamics of the relationship.

What Are Some Resources And Support For Panromantic Bisexuals?

Resources and support for panromantic bisexual individuals can come in a variety of forms, including online communities, educational websites, counseling services, and literature. Here are a few that could be useful:

Online Communities

• AVEN (The Asexual Visibility and Education Network): While originally created for asexual individuals, AVEN has a broad forum that includes discussions on various orientations, including panromantic and bisexual orientations.
• Reddit: Subreddits like r/bisexual, r/pansexual, r/lgbt, and r/questioning can provide community support, advice, and resources.
• TrevorSpace: An online international peer-to-peer community for LGBTQ+ young people and their friends, created by the Trevor Project.

Educational Websites

• MantraCare: Offers a wide range of resources related to all aspects of the LGBTQ+ community, including definitions, guides, and news.
• The Trevor Project: Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ individuals under 25, along with educational resources.
• PFLAG: Originally Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, PFLAG is a great resource for educational materials. They also have local chapters that provide support.

Literature

• “Bi Lives: Bisexual Women Tell Their Stories” edited by Kata Orndorff: While not specific to panromantic bisexuality, this book offers a collection of personal narratives from bisexual individuals that could offer insights and shared experiences.
• “Recognize The Voices of Bisexual Men” edited by Robyn Ochs and H. Sharif Williams: An anthology of personal narratives, poetry, and essays on bisexuality.

Counseling Services

• PrideMantra: Offers professional online counseling for LGBTQ+ individuals.
• LGBT National Help Center: Provides confidential peer support, information, and local resources.

Remember, everyone’s journey with their identity is unique. It’s okay to take your time to explore and understand your feelings. There’s a community out there to support you and many resources available to help navigate your experiences.

Conclusion

In understanding and embracing our individual identities and those of others, it’s crucial to consider the intricate layers of romantic and sexual orientations. Our exploration of panromantic bisexuality in this blog underlines the importance of recognizing the unique combinations of attractions that people can experience. As we continue to educate ourselves and challenge misconceptions, we foster an environment of acceptance and support for all identities.

It is within this embrace of diversity that we truly progress towards a more inclusive and understanding society. Life may sometimes be challenging for bisexuals, but Online Bisexual Counseling can help. Get experienced LGBTQ therapists at PrideMantra: Book a trial LGBTQ therapy session