Pansexual Vs. Bisexual: What Is the Difference?

What Is Bisexuality?

Bisexuals are attracted to two different genders–their own and one additional type. A bisexual person can experience sexual attraction to any gender, including trans, non-binary, or cisgender individuals. For example, one can be in a seemingly cis-hetero (straight) relationship and still be considered bisexual, as their sexuality is not determined by their current partner.¹

What Is Pansexuality?

The terms pansexual and “pan” refer to individuals who experience emotional and sexual attraction towards people regardless of their sex or gender. Often, pansexuals do not view their partner’s chosen gender identity as a factor when pursuing romantic or intimate relationships.¹

Differences Between Being Bisexual & Pansexual

Because bisexuals are attracted to more than one gender, they may be mislabeled as being pansexual. However, pansexuals experience attraction for anyone, regardless of their gender identity or sex. The confusion here often stems from society’s view of gender as being exclusively male and female.²

Additionally, a bisexual person usually has a preference for some genders over others, whereas a pansexual person may not. For instance, a bisexual might only be attracted to those on the feminine end of the gender spectrum, whether that person is cis, non-binary, or trans. Conversely, a pansexual does not consider femininity or masculinity when experiencing romantic or sexual attraction to an individual.

To fully understand these diverse sexualities, it is sometimes helpful to think of them in relation to the Kinsey Scale. This was developed to help define someone’s sexual and romantic orientation.³

To help illustrate how this works, picture a scale that goes from zero to six. According to this scale, those who identify at zero are exclusively heterosexual, while those at notch six are homosexual. Those who rate themselves one through five experience various levels of attraction to different genders.³

Defining Sexuality

Sexuality, or one’s sexual orientation, is a broad term that refers to one’s sexual and intimate thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. There are many different types of sexual orientations, and it is possible to identify with more than one at once, and even change or evolve this identity over time.

Sex Vs. Gender

In order to understand sexuality, it is important to first recognize the difference between sex and gender. Sex refers to the biological aspects of a person, such as their physical characteristics and reproduction systems. Conversely, gender is a social construct that does not always coincide with one’s biological sex. The gender identity of a person may stem from how they were raised, their culture, societal expectations, and their perception of themselves.

Common gender identities may include:

• Agender
• Transgender
• Two-spirit
• Intersex
• Gender Queer
• Non-binary
• Cisgender
• Gender Nonconforming
• Gender fluid

Sexual Attraction Vs. Romantic Attraction

It is important to understand the difference between sexual attraction and romantic attraction. When a person feels sexually attracted to someone, this usually entails a physical desire for sexual contact and intimacy. Romantic attraction refers to the connection and bond one feels with a partner that can grow through shared interests, values, and other relational elements that go beyond sex. Just as sexuality comes in numerous different forms, so does one’s romantic orientation.

Common romantic orientations may include:

• Heteroromantic: This orientation refers to people who are romantically interested in those of the opposite sex or gender.
• Homoromantic: Homoromantic individuals are romantically attracted to those of the same sex or gender.
• Aromantic: This romantic orientation includes those who do not experience romantic attraction.
• Biromantic: Biromantic people experience romantic attraction towards people of two different genders.
• Polyromantic: Individuals who identify as polyromantic are romantically interested in multiple–but not all–genders. This is sometimes confused with polyamory, which is the act of having romantic relationships with more than one partner.
• Panromantic: Panromantics are romantically attracted to anyone, regardless of their gender.
• Cupioromantic: Cupioromantic individuals do not feel romantic attraction, but may still want to have romantic relationships.

How to Know If You Are Bisexual or Pansexual

Sexuality is a spectrum and is experienced differently by everyone. A person’s orientation will appear in ways unique to them, but there are some signs to look for if you suspect you may be bisexual or pansexual. If you have had crushes on, been interested in dating, or have been sexually intimate with more than one gender, you may be bisexual. If you don’t picture a specific gender when picturing your ideal partner, you may be more comfortable identifying as pansexual.

It is not unusual to be sexually fluid or change the definition of your sexuality over time, especially as you mature and become more self-aware. Remember, you do not have to label your sexuality if you don’t want to. Some people do not wish to identify for many reasons, but others may gain a sense of belonging within the LGBTQ community after coming out.

Where to Find Support

If you are feeling confused about your identity or have questions about how to come out, it can be helpful to seek professional help. Consider finding an LGBTQ+ therapist, as they can provide you with useful tools for exploring and understanding your identity. If you would prefer to engage in at-home sessions, there are many LGBTQ+ online therapy options available, too. You can start your search for a mental health provider by using an online therapist directory.

Final Thoughts

While there are key differences between pansexuality and bisexuality, it can sometimes be difficult to know which identity you feel most comfortable with. Remember that your coming out process may be ongoing, as your orientation may change and develop as you become more in touch with your sexuality. Exploring sexuality can seem daunting, but seeking resources that provide guidance and support can help you along the way.