Pansexuality is the attraction to persons regardless of their gender on a romantic, emotional, or sexual level. Like everyone else, pansexuals may find certain persons more attractive than others, but it is irrelevant what gender the person is. Pansexuality is an identity that can and does exist for people of any gender. Although there are differences between the phrases “bisexual” and “pansexual,” some individuals use them interchangeably.
Other Names for Pansexual
Rather than “pansexual,” some prefer the word “omnisexual.” Some individuals believe that the word “pansexuality” means that their attraction to others is gender-neutral. Even while omnisexual prefer to use the word, they might be attracted to persons of any gender and still perceive gender as a role in their attraction. Pansexuality and omnisexuality are difficult to distinguish from one another since both “pan” and “Omni” signify “all.” Some individuals alternately employ them.
What Is the Difference Between Pansexuality, Bisexuality, and Polysexuality?
Bisexuality is basically the attraction to certain people of two or more genders, whereas pansexuality is the attraction to a person regardless of gender. Although not all people of both genders are inclined to polyamory. To be clear, a bisexual or pansexual person may be attracted to people of other genders or without regard to gender, just as a heterosexual woman is not necessarily attracted to ALL guys. This does not necessarily mean that they are drawn to ALL of those people, though.
Pansexual vs. Bisexual
Pansexuality and bisexuality share certain characteristics yet differ. Pansexuality, which involves attraction to people of all genders, is more specifically defined as bisexuality. Bisexuality is the attraction to two or more genders, albeit not always all of them. Individuals who identify as bisexual may or may not also do so. Some people prefer to identify as bisexual even if they are pansexual since the term “bisexual” is more commonly accepted.
Pansexual vs. Polysexual
In a similar vein, pansexuality differs from polysexuality in that it encompasses a wider range of sexual orientations. Contrary to bisexuality, polysexuality expressly suggests that a person is not attracted to both genders. Many but not all are what poly signifies. For instance, a polysexual person could be drawn to persons of all sexes except for women. A pansexual individual may be drawn to persons of any gender identification, including males, women, nonbinary individuals, and trans people.
Myths and Misconceptions about Pansexuality
Some individuals believe that because people can be attracted to persons of any gender, pansexual people are more likely than others to act on their desire. This may contribute to the myth that pansexuals are promiscuous. However, pansexuals are all unique individuals, just like heterosexuals or homosexuals. Every pansexual individual will have a different choice for how much sex they wish to have and may even opt to live a celibate lifestyle.
Furthermore, others claim that pansexual persons are less likely to remain monogamous due to the same perceptions of promiscuity. It is incorrect that pansexuals are more likely to favour monogamy than heterosexuals or homosexuals. Polyamory and pansexuality are not the same things. There is no connection between the possibility of attraction to someone of any gender and a preference for several relationships.
How Pansexuality Works in Relationships
Given that they are attracted to people of both genders, pansexuals can be in a variety of partnerships. These relationships might be “straight-passing” or blatantly homosexual. No matter what gender their partner is, a pansexual person remains pansexual; they typically do not have the advantage of “straight-passing.” Instead, people could experience microaggressions when their sexuality is discounted or ignored.
It’s crucial for anyone coupled with a pansexual individual to talk about boundaries, just as in any other relationship. There should be no presumptions made by either partner on topics like monogamy, sexual behaviour, or general preferences. Every pansexual individual is unique and has various interests. It’s crucial to respect the boundaries of a pansexual partner if you’re in a relationship with them.
Helping Your Loved Ones Understand Pansexuality
You don’t have to tell your loved ones that you’re pansexual, although some people find it therapeutic or cathartic to do so. You may describe pansexuality as an innate attraction to persons of all genders if you decide to come out. “Hearts, not parts,” as some pansexual activists like to say, is how they describe this orientation. Even though the statement sounds condescending, it might be helpful when speaking with others who are unfamiliar with LGBTQ jargon.
If you have a new relationship and want to discuss pansexuality with your loved ones, talk to your partner first. You are probably seeing someone who is LGBTQ+ if your decision to come out was prompted by a new relationship. You run the risk of also disclosing your partner if you come out. Your partner’s life might be seriously impacted by this revelation. You could decide to wait before leaving the closet yourself out of respect for your partner’s privacy if they’d want to stay there.
