Being Attracted to More Than One Gender With the diverse and inclusive world that we live in today knowing about different sexualities, as well as gender identities is more important than ever. Polysexuality is one that needs a look and perspective. Today, we are here to raise awareness about what Polysexuality is, how it is different from other orientations and why knowing this identity also matters.
Definition of Polysexuality
But first, the basics: What is a polysexual? Polysexual definition refers Attraction to two or more genders, but not all. It is also important to note that the polysexual definition is crucial for understanding how this orientation differs.
When we look at Polysexuality vs Pansexuality, it makes sense!
Polysexuality vs Pansexuality
Pansexuality encompasses attraction to all genders or any gender, while polysexuality may include attraction to multiple genders but not most (in some cases, a third party may be involved). Example: A polysexual person does not have an attraction to men, but to both women and non-binary folks
Polysexuality is also very confused with other terms that are commonly related
Bisexuality polyamory
These are distinct from polysexuality. Bisexuality usually means attraction to two genders, polyamory refers explicitly to leading multiple romantic relationships. Polysexuality is also about attraction, not relationship structure.
The Spectrum of Attraction
Polysexual peoples experience attraction on a wide scale. This may include attraction to the following
- All genders
- Non-binary individuals
- Genderfluid people
- Certain genders
This is where you have to get what’s a poly relationship actually is. Regarding polysexuality, a person in a poly relationship could be attracted to more than one gender identity, but it does not require them to date all partners simultaneously.
For example, Alex, a polysexual individual, shares: “I’m attracted to men women and some non-binary identities. Yeah, but what a poly relationship looks like to me is being able to date folks of these genders: not necessarily multiple people at once.”
Historical Context and Evolution of Understanding
The term polysexuality was first coined in the 1970s at the time of rapidly expanding sexual orientation awareness. Yes, but many different societies have long embraced the idea of being attracted to more than one gender.
Perhaps as our knowledge and awareness of gender has expanded beyond the binary, so too have we come to more explicitly acknowledge diverse sexual orientations. This spectrum includes polysexuality, and it is important to recognize that attraction can take a variety of forms.
Debunking Myths and Misconceptions
Many people widely misunderstand polysexuality (much like they do with many sexual orientations). Some myths we debunk collectively
Myth: Polysexuality is the same as polyamory.
Reality: The polysexual definition would be about attraction, while the polyamory is having multiple romantic relationships. Polysexual people can, but do not have to be monogamous or polyamorous.
Myth: Polysexual individuals feel confused or indecisive.
Reality: It would be fair to call it an orientation that is valid and not one who keeps changing every morning when they woke up.
Myth: Poly relationship is always non-monogamous.
Reality: A polysexual person is might enter into open or plural relationships.
How a polysexual person can still be in a relationship
No matter how progressive the society is, it’s no easy understanding of what being polysexual means in a world so old fashioned. Here are some tips:
Speak Up: Tell the person you’re into it, explain polysexuality definition and then find out what they think about it and the way it works with your attractions or relationships.
So you may need to introduce them: Polysexuality vs Pansexuality? Be patient and explain the differences. This allows them to gain better understanding on the word itself.
Set boundaries, Limit It: It may be more difficult to establish your limits and expectations in a relationship, especially when defining what its be like. But, this can help you prevent miscommunication.
You are not alone: Form or join your polysexual community or other LGBTQ+ groups that support you.
Be patient: It is part of community to wait until your foots in the door and it might take a few years for you realize that if polysexuality coexist with your own identity.
Polysexuality and Other Identities
However, we need to realize that polysexuality can encompass so many different parts of identity. Here are a few examples:
Gender identity: Polysexual people can have any gender identity.
Romantic orientation: As an example, one might regard oneself as polysexual but homoromatic.
Cultural background: Cultural influences can also affect beliefs about sexuality and gender.
The intersections in these posts show the complexity and the variety of the ways in which people define themselves with respect to their sexuality.
Resources & Support
You can find resources to help you learn about your identity as a polysexual or to understand more about identity.
Go Online: Reddit and Tumblr have busy polysexual groups where you can talk about polysexuality.
Books: Read the books, Ashley Mardell’s The ABC’s of LGBT+ (polysexuality covered) and Meg-John Barker’s Queer: A Graphic History.
LGBTQ+ Centers: It is in many cities that there is support groups and counselling centres for people who want to accept the way Polysexuality vs Pansexuality.
Helplines: Helplines like The Trevor Project aid LGBTQ+ persons & young Americans in search of their sexuality.
Educational websites: GLAAD and The LGBT Foundation are sites which materials are available for different sexual orientations.
It’s best to know that you can seek help if you’re hurting or if someone discriminates against your so-called character. Look for therapists who are LGBTQ+ affirming and known polysexuality support.
Embracing Diversity in Sexuality
At the end of it all, polysexuality is more than just a new term — it’s about acknowledging the wide expanse that encompasses human attraction with understanding and respect. As we learn more about the history of this term, broaden our definition within our community, and educate others on what souls like us need to feel seen in society, I believe we can make progress.
If you are polysexual or know someone who is, you might be interested in exploring what a polysexual relationship could look like for them. Remember that all orientations have their place. Human sexuality is varied and organic, which means polysexuality: yet another colourful strand in the fabric of that diversity.