What Is the Relationship Between Sexual Orientation, Bisexuality and Creativity?

Abstract

ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper is to examine historical, empirical, and present literature on the relationship between sexual orientation, bisexuality, and creativity. Few empirical studies have been implemented since the removal of homosexuality from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Stereotypes and popular beliefs still exist in society and literature without empirical evidence, indicating that gay men are more creative. Yet, the only empirical evidence, both historical and recent, indicates the opposite. More research is needed to explore creativity in sexual orientation minorities. In particular, it appears that there may be a higher empirical relationship between bisexuality and creativity, yet few studies have been implemented. Furthermore, there is a vital need to include gender and the study of women in relation to creativity and sexual orientation research. Creativity research has only begun to explore the dynamics of gender and culture. The next step is to include the dynamics of sexual orientation to creativity research. The author conducted a literature review and proposes potential research questions for further exploration.