Let’s be real—there’s a truckload of myths out there about bisexuality. Despite growing visibility, misinformation still runs rampant. For those in education and e-learning spaces, it’s crucial to clear things up. After all, how can we teach inclusivity if we’re working off faulty ideas?

So today, we’re diving into debunking myths about bisexuality—10 of them, to be exact. Some are subtle, some are outright wild, but all of them? They need to go.

Myth 1: Bisexuality Is Just a Phase

Where Did This Come From?

This tired claim usually pops up when someone comes out. People assume it’s a temporary stop on the way to being “fully gay” or “straight again.”

The Reality

Nope. Not true. Bisexuality is a valid sexual orientation, not a stepping stone. It’s not something people outgrow like braces or awkward teenage phases. It’s lifelong for many—and just as legitimate as being gay or straight.

Myth 2: Bisexual People Are Confused

The Oversimplification of Sexuality

Confusion is part of self-discovery, sure—but it doesn’t mean the final identity is invalid. This myth stems from society’s obsession with labeling everything neatly.

Embracing Fluidity

Being attracted to more than one gender doesn’t equal confusion—it means someone recognizes the spectrum of human attraction. That’s clarity, not chaos.

Myth 3: Bisexuals Are More Likely to Cheat

Relationship Stereotypes and Biphobia

Let’s smash this one. Cheating has nothing to do with orientation and everything to do with choices and boundaries. But bisexuals often get painted as inherently unfaithful, which is just… lazy stereotyping.

This myth breeds distrust and alienates people in relationships. Let’s retire it for good.

Myth 4: Bisexuality Equals 50/50 Attraction

Attraction Is Not a Math Equation

There’s no magical bisexual scale that assigns equal points to every gender. Attraction can vary. Some bisexual folks might mostly be into one gender and still be bi. It’s about potential for attraction—not quotas.

Myth 5: They’re Just Attention Seekers

Media Tropes and Harmful Narratives

Thanks to movies and reality TV, bisexual people are often portrayed as flirty, wild, and always making a scene. But these portrayals are more fantasy than fact.

Being open about your sexuality doesn’t mean you’re attention-hungry—it means you’re honest. Let’s not confuse the two.

Myth 6: Bisexual Men Don’t Exist

Toxic Masculinity’s Role

This myth is both biphobic and steeped in toxic masculinity. Society often shames men for being anything but aggressively straight. As a result, bisexual men face erasure and judgment from all sides.

They exist. They matter. And their sexuality is not up for debate.

Myth 7: Bisexual People Must Be Polyamorous

Bisexuality ≠ Relationship Style

Some bisexual people are polyamorous. Others are monogamous. Some don’t date at all. Sexual orientation doesn’t dictate how someone approaches relationships.

Assuming otherwise is like saying all vegans do yoga. Just… no.

Myth 8: You’re Not Bisexual If You’ve Only Dated One Gender

Identity vs. Experience

Let’s flip the logic here. Would you tell a straight person they’re not straight because they’ve never dated anyone? Of course not.

Identity isn’t about a dating resume. It’s about inner truth. Period.

Myth 9: Bisexuality Disappears in Monogamous Relationships

The Invisibility Problem

When a bisexual person dates someone of a particular gender, others often assume they’re gay or straight. But that’s erasure at its finest.

Just like being married doesn’t erase someone’s past, being in a monogamous relationship doesn’t erase bisexuality. It’s still part of who they are.

Myth 10: Bisexuality Isn’t Real

Erasure and Its Consequences

The most harmful myth of all. Claiming bisexuality isn’t real invalidates millions of people. It fuels stigma, limits representation, and discourages self-acceptance.

And for educators? It’s a red flag. Teaching from a place of denial creates unsafe spaces for learning and growth.

Why Debunking Myths Matters in Education

Fostering Inclusive Classrooms

Education should be a place of truth and inclusion. When we debunk myths about bisexuality, we create safer spaces for students to be themselves.

Curriculum Impacts

Inclusion starts with content. Are LGBTQ+ voices present in your reading lists? Do your e-learning modules reflect diverse identities? Representation matters—and it starts with understanding.

What Educators and E-Learners Can Do

Steps Toward Awareness and Allyship

1. Educate yourself: Read, watch, and listen to bisexual voices.
2. Challenge stereotypes: Speak up when you hear misinformation.
3. Promote inclusive language: Use terms like “partner” or “they” when appropriate.
4. Update resources: Ensure your learning materials don’t reinforce old myths.

In an education setting, allyship isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Conclusion: Breaking the Binary Thinking

It’s time we moved past these outdated, binary ideas. Bisexuality is real, valid, and not up for debate. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or just someone looking to learn, challenging these myths is one step closer to a more inclusive world.

And remember: education is one of the strongest tools we have for change. Let’s use it wisely.

FAQs

1. Is bisexuality different from pansexuality?
   Yes. While both can involve attraction to more than one gender, pansexuality typically refers to attraction regardless of gender. Bisexuality usually refers to attraction to two or more genders. Labels are personal—respect people’s choices.
2. Can someone be bisexual and married?
   Absolutely. Being in a monogamous relationship doesn’t change someone’s orientation.
3. What’s the best way to support bisexual students?
   Listen, believe them, and create safe, inclusive spaces. Also, update your resources to reflect diverse identities.
4. Are these Debunking Myths present in e-learning environments too?
   Unfortunately, yes. Many outdated modules, language, and examples still reinforce stereotypes. It’s on us to fix that.
5. Why is “debunking myths” important for educators?
   Because misinformation can create stigma. Educators shape minds—let’s do it with truth, empathy, and inclusivity.

Explore more inclusive learning tools and culturally aware resources at NextEducation.co.nz — where learning meets understanding.

Next Education helps shape classrooms and digital platforms that empower every learner, every identity.

The post 10 Myths About Bisexuality That Need to Die appeared first on Next Education New Zealand – Empowering Lifelong Learning.

Sexuality is a natural part of human development. It influences how people understand themselves, build relationships, and connect with others. Within Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in New Zealand, sexuality education helps learners develop knowledge, respect, empathy, and confidence throughout their lives.

Rather than focusing only on sexual behaviour, sexuality education explores identity, attraction, relationships, values, wellbeing, and personal boundaries. It supports young people in making informed decisions while fostering respect for diversity.

As part of the wider RSE curriculum, sexuality education helps create safe and inclusive learning environments where every learner feels seen, valued, and respected.

What Does Sexuality Mean?

Sexuality refers to the way people experience and express attraction, relationships, identity, and intimacy. It can include:

• Sexual orientation
• Romantic attraction
• Emotional attraction
• Personal values and beliefs
• Relationship preferences
• Self-identity and self-expression

For some people, sexuality remains consistent throughout life. For others, it may evolve as they gain new experiences and understanding.

Understanding sexuality helps learners develop healthy relationships and build respect for people whose experiences may differ from their own.

Why Sexuality Education Matters in New Zealand Schools

Quality sexuality education is a core component of Relationships and Sexuality Education in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Research consistently shows that comprehensive sexuality education contributes to:

• Improved wellbeing
• Stronger relationship skills
• Increased respect for diversity
• Better understanding of consent
• Reduced bullying and discrimination
• Healthier decision-making

When delivered effectively, sexuality education empowers learners with factual, age-appropriate information while promoting inclusion and belonging.

Understanding the Sexuality Spectrum

Human sexuality exists on a spectrum rather than within fixed categories. Different people experience attraction and relationships in different ways.

Heterosexual

A heterosexual person is primarily attracted to people of a different gender.

Gay and Lesbian

These terms generally describe people who are attracted to others of the same gender.

Bisexual

Bisexual people may experience attraction to more than one gender.

Pansexual

Pansexual individuals may experience attraction regardless of gender identity.

Asexual

Asexual people experience little or no sexual attraction to others. However, many still form meaningful romantic and emotional relationships.

Questioning and Fluid Identities

Some individuals may be exploring their identity or find that their experiences of attraction change over time. RSE encourages respectful understanding of these experiences without judgment.

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity: Understanding the Difference

A common misconception is that sexual orientation and gender identity mean the same thing.

Sexual orientation describes who someone is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to.

Gender identity refers to a person’s internal understanding of their gender.

While these aspects of identity can intersect, they are separate concepts. Understanding this distinction helps learners build respect for diverse experiences and identities.

The Role of Sexuality Education in Building Healthy Relationships

One of the primary goals of sexuality education is helping young people develop healthy relationship skills.

This includes learning about:

• Respect
• Communication
• Consent
• Personal boundaries
• Empathy
• Emotional wellbeing

By understanding these concepts, learners are better equipped to navigate friendships, family relationships, and future romantic relationships.

For a deeper understanding of attraction and relationships, read our guide on The Difference Between Romantic and Sexual Attraction.

Creating Inclusive Learning Environments

Inclusive sexuality education ensures all learners feel represented in the classroom.

When students see diverse identities reflected in learning materials, they are more likely to feel accepted and engaged. Inclusive teaching also helps reduce stereotypes and promotes greater understanding among peers.

Educators can support inclusion by:

• Using respectful language
• Challenging harmful stereotypes
• Encouraging open discussion
• Providing accurate information
• Representing diverse experiences

These practices align with the goals of New Zealand’s RSE framework and contribute to positive learning outcomes.

Addressing Common Misconceptions About Sexuality

Misinformation about sexuality can create confusion and stigma.

Some common myths include:

Myth: Sexuality Is a Choice

Sexual orientation is not something people choose. It is a deeply personal aspect of identity.

Myth: Everyone Experiences Attraction the Same Way

People experience attraction differently. Some may experience strong attraction, while others may identify as asexual or demisexual.

Myth: Labels Are Required

While labels can help some people understand themselves, others may choose not to use any labels at all. Both experiences are valid.

Supporting Student Wellbeing Through RSE

Sexuality education plays an important role in supporting student wellbeing.

When learners receive accurate, age-appropriate information, they are more likely to:

• Develop confidence
• Build healthy relationships
• Respect diversity
• Seek support when needed
• Make informed decisions

A strong foundation in sexuality education contributes to safer, more supportive school communities.

Sexuality Education and the Future of Learning

As education continues to evolve, sexuality education remains an essential part of preparing young people for life beyond the classroom.

Modern RSE programmes increasingly incorporate digital literacy, online safety, emotional intelligence, and inclusive practices to meet the needs of today’s learners.

By providing comprehensive sexuality education, schools can support the development of informed, respectful, and resilient individuals.

Conclusion

Understanding sexuality is an important part of Relationships and Sexuality Education in New Zealand. Through comprehensive sexuality education, learners gain the knowledge and skills needed to build healthy relationships, respect diversity, and support their own wellbeing.

As part of a broader commitment to inclusive education, sexuality education helps create learning environments where every student can thrive, regardless of their identity or experiences.

Related Reading

• RSE Curriculum NZ
• The Difference Between Romantic and Sexual Attraction
• Asexuality 101: What It Is and What It Isn’t

Resources

• Ministry of Education New Zealand – Relationships and Sexuality Education
• UNESCO International Technical Guidance on Sexuality Education
• Family Planning New Zealand

The post Understanding Sexuality in the Context of RSE in New Zealand appeared first on Next Education New Zealand – Empowering Lifelong Learning.