Sexual minority identity formation in an adult population.
This study reflects an initial empirical attempt to assess the validity of a widely accepted model of sexual identity formation proposed by Cass (1979). Using a cross-sectional sample of 143 sexual minority participants, factor analytic and multidimensional scaling results suggest that sexual minorities view the identity formation process as occurring in two phases, rather than multiple discrete linear stages. These two phases can be best characterized by individuals having either an "unintegrated" or "fully integrated" sense of sexual orientation into one's self-identity. Future research is suggested utilizing a longitudinal design in order to conduct a more rigorous test of this model.
School of Professional Psychology, Pacific University, USA. john7406@pacificu.edu
Donna J
DJ
Johns
Tahira M
TM
Probst
D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008913:Minority Groups / Q000523:psychology*; D011606:Psychosexual Development; D012933:Social Identification; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires