Bisexuality recognised and its enriching potential endorsed

BI PRIDE AUSTRALIA MEDIA RELEASE

July 19th 2005

Bi Pride Australia, the Bisexual community's peak lobby group, today welcomed a new study which supports the existence and legitimacy of bisexuality as a valid sexual orientation.
Presented at the British Psychological Society's Psychology of Women Section Conference, the study called on health professionals to recognise the existence of bisexual identity and to confront prejudices which render bisexuals invisible or portray them in a negative light. Spokesperson, Jen Van-Achteren, said "This study recognises the very real pressure, felt by bisexual people, from some in the heterosexual and gay communities to, pick a side and stick to it." "The lack of acceptance and understanding from both sides has detrimental effects on the wellbeing of bisexuals."

Spokesperson, Les Davidson, commented "While the study, conducted by Patricia Hudson, focused on bisexual women, anecdotally BPA finds bisexual men have a similar experience. In fact, in our opinion, bisexual men can often face more stigma and discrimination than women."

"The study suggests with support and acceptance bisexual people experience enhanced self esteem and the opportunity to experience enriching relationships."

"The findings also suggest an integral ingredient to higher self esteem is the need for genuine bisexual inclusion in the queer community."

For further information contact
Jen Van-Achteren on 0401 054 003 or Les Davidson on 0438 242 444.