Around the term "polysexual" exist many prejudices and misconceptions. Especially interesting in this context is that many are of the opinion that this is a synonym for pansexuality.
However, there is a clear difference between these two sexual orientations: while pansexual people actually desire all genders, polysexual people love only some genders.
Exactly which genders are involved varies from individual to individual. For example, there are polysexuals who are into men, women and trans women and others who are into men, women and trans men.
However, these are only two of numerous examples. The range of polysexuality is much more diverse.
How do polysexual and polyamorous differ from each other?
There is also a clear difference between polysexual and polyamorous. Because: Those who are polyamorous can fall in love with several people at the same time (!). Many are comparatively open about their lifestyle and talk about their passion with their partner.
Polysexual people, on the other hand, usually feel very comfortable in monogamous relationships.
Therefore, the statement "Polysexual people can't be faithful anyway!" is a clear prejudice. Just the fact that a person is capable of loving multiple sexes does not mean that he or she cannot be faithful.
There are many polysexual people who have been together with their partners for years. Polysexuality and monogamy are by no means mutually exclusive.
Why does polysexuality need a name?
With regard to the answer to this question, opinions differ greatly in this day and age. While many appreciate that there is a word that describes their way of loving, others resist this kind of "pigeonholing". They repeatedly emphasize that it would represent the absolute form of equality if sexual orientations were generally no longer talked about and thus everything was simply considered "normal".
In this way, everyone would be equal and no one would be discriminated against.
However, numerous people who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community see this very thing differently. They use self-designations, such as polysexual, to express their own identity, which is outside the "norm", and to give others a small, queer view of the bigger picture.
Finally, terms such as "polysexuality" and the like naturally allow people to short-circuit and exchange ideas with other like-minded people.
When do affected persons discover their polysexuality?
Some people discover their polysexuality earlier and others later. There is no fixed timetable here. For example, it can happen that people who "actually always" thought they were bisexual suddenly realize that they are not only enthusiastic about biological men and women, but also about trans men and trans women, for example.
The decision to be open about one's polysexuality, can be experienced as very liberating. Nevertheless, of course, as with any coming out, those affected should only take this step when they feel comfortable with it.
Is polysexuality "just a phase"?
To speak of a "phase" in connection with polysexuality can be very hurtful for those affected. Many feel that sentences like these are not taken seriously. Most people can define comparatively well for themselves whether their polysexuality is a kind of curiosity or whether they fundamentally find several sexes attractive.
The reference to the fact that it is quite possible to fall in love with different genders or to desire their representatives is also present at more and more CSDs.
So for trans men so men who identify as women I am also interested. Have even found one or the other here. 😉