Introduction to the Special Issue on Aging and Bisexuality: Can These Complex Life Patterns Be an Impetus for Identity Flexibility and Growth?. Issue 1 (2nd January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sinnott, Jan D.
• Is Part Of: Journal of bisexuality. Volume 16:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 3
• Page End: 19
• Publication Date: 2016-01-02
• Subjects: Bisexuality -- Periodicals; 306.765
• DOI: 10.1080/15299716.2016.1145992
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1529-9716

Abstract

Abstract: What happens to identity when life challenges include two major individual characteristics that are often considered negative: identifying as bisexual and identifying as an older adult? In this issue we learn more about the varieties of lived experience of older bisexuals. In the larger society, and even within smaller affinity groups, these labels often include social stigmas and challenges to whatever identity a person formed earlier in life. Some larger questions arise. How can adults think of themselves as having a fully formed identity when that identity is challenged? Could accepting and incorporating these labels help an adult grow and learn to cognitively conceptualize personal identity in a more complex, flexible, growing way? Creating and re-creating the concept of the self, the identity, over the course of adulthood is a cognitive and a personal challenge and a potential source of growth. This article introduces the five articles in this special issue, broadens our view of aging bisexuals, and examines the possible cognitive aspects of creating a flexible identity. Societal changes and the growth potential for dealing with the dual life challenges of bisexuality and aging are considered.