Since we are generally socialized as heterosexuals, bisexuality is a stage that many people may experience as part of the process of acknowledging their homosexuality. Many others come to identify as bisexual after a considerable period of identification as gay men or lesbians. Bisexuality, like homosexuality and heterosexuality, may be either a transitional step in the process of sexual discovery, or a stable, long-term identity. It is not easy to say how common bisexuality is, since little research has been done on this subject. Most studies on sexuality have focused on heterosexuality or homosexuality.
Bisexuals are in many ways a hidden population.
Because bisexuality does not fit into these standard categories, it tends to be denied or ignored. Bisexuality threatens the accepted way of looking at the world by calling into question the validity of rigid sexual categorization, and encourages acknowledgment of the existence of a diverse range of sexuality. Since there is not a stereotypical bisexual appearance or way of acting, bisexuals are usually assumed to be either heterosexual or homosexual. In order to increase awareness, bisexuals have begun to create their own visible communities. Bisexual Relationships Bisexuals, like all people, have a wide variety of relationship styles.