Nearly one in five young French women don't identify as strictly attracted to the opposite sex.
Fresh Take:
Saying you're "bisexual but homoromantic," "not entirely hetero or lesbian, but with a girlfriend," or simply "gay," are becoming common phrases among young folks, according to a 24-year-old woman speaking to Le Monde. A recent study shows that these non-binary identities are on the rise, particularly among young women.
Sociologist Marie Bergström, director of the book La Sexualité qui vient (La Découverte, 392 pages, 26.50 euros), delves deep into the world of youth and their intimate relationships. One striking discovery: 19% of women aged 18 to 29 don't define themselves as heterosexual - an increase of five times since 2015. Among men of the same age bracket, 8% don't embrace a strictly heterosexual identity.
The significant jump in the number of young women identifying as "bisexual" or "pansexual" is a notable finding. These labels, both signifying attraction to multiple genders, have become more widely recognized and accepted in today's world[1].
Expanding Horizons of Sexual Identity
- Busting Binary Barriers: In contemporary society, rigid sexual orientation labels are being challenged, providing room for more fluid identities like bisexuality and pansexuality. Greater visibility and acceptance of non-heterosexual identities empower young people to express their sexuality more truthfully[3].
- Breaking Free from Social Norms: Trends like body modifications (e.g., septum piercings) have become symbols of queer culture and self-expression, allowing young people to resist heteronormative roles and find comfort in communities supportive of non-heterosexual identities[4].
In conclusion, the increase in young women identifying as bisexual or pansexual is a testament to changing social, cultural, and personal attitudes toward sexuality and the importance of inclusive labels that embrace complexity and diversity[3][1].
- The rise in young women identifying as bisexual or pansexual, which signifies attraction to multiple genders, reflects the breaking down of rigid sexual orientation labels due to increasing social acceptance and visibility [3].
- As more young women embrace bisexual or pansexual identities, it highlights the expanding horizons of sexual identity within the health-and-wellness and mental-health realms, promoting a greater understanding and acceptance of non-heterosexual identities in women's health and overall society [1].
