Estimating LGB Identity and Orientation

The Kinsey Scale (1948) measured sexual orientation on a continuum from strictly heterosexual (0) to strictly homosexual (6).

The Shively Scale (1977) separates the dimensions of same and opposite-sex attraction, measuring them independently. It divides orientation into two subscales, one for homosexual orientation (0-5) and another for heterosexual orientation (0-5).

The Klein Sexual Orientation Grid (1985) examines seven aspects of sexual behavior across homosexual and heterosexual orientation, considering both past and present experiences.

The Sell Sexual Orientation Measure (1997) is a research tool that assesses same-sex and opposite-sex attraction, sexual behavior, and identity.

Homosexual behavior is observed in many primate species, including chimpanzees. It serves different social functions like tension reduction, reconciliation, and alliance formation (social bonding).

Evolutionary theory suggests that homosexual behavior in humans might be an exaptation. This means that the behavior has been “repurposed” through natural selection to improve survival and fitness, serving functions like social bonding, reconciliation, and tension reduction.

A person's identity includes their internalized preferences, how they label themselves, and their lifestyle choices.

Attraction, behavior, and identity in individuals do not always align. This means that a person's attraction, their actual sexual behavior, and how they identify may not always match.

The process of identifying and disclosing one's sexual orientation to others, often initially to close friends and family.

A safe environment where individuals feel comfortable being themselves, particularly for those in the LGBTQ+ community.

The idea that being part of a minority group can lead to stress due to prejudice, discrimination, and internalized negative attitudes.

Negative attitudes, behaviors, and actions directed towards individuals based on their sexual orientation.

The act of treating someone unfairly based on their sexual orientation.

Actions that harm or threaten LGBTQ+ individuals due to their sexual orientation.

The incorporation of negative societal attitudes about LGBTQ+ individuals into one's self-perception.

The collection of diagnostic criteria for mental health disorders, used by mental health professionals.

The classification of homosexuality as a mental disorder in earlier versions of the DSM, based on societal views and psychoanalytic theories.

The removal of homosexuality as a mental disorder in the DSM III (1980), reflecting a shift in understanding and acceptance.

A medical model based on identifying and treating biological causes of mental disorders.

A model centered on identifying and modifying maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that contribute to mental disorders.

An approach to diagnosing mental disorders that emphasizes practical, culturally neutral, and evidence-based criteria.

The importance of cultural factors in shaping perspectives and experiences of mental health, particularly for minority groups like the LGBTQ+ community.

The role of social and political movements and activism in challenging stigma, discrimination, and promoting acceptance of marginalized groups, like the LGBTQ+ community.

Areas in the hypothalamus of the brain that are different in size between men and women, and also show differences in individuals identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual.

A marker for the amount of prenatal androgen exposure, calculated by measuring the length of the index and ring fingers.

Prenatal hormones influence sexual orientation, particularly in women. Higher prenatal androgen exposure is linked to increased likelihood of same-sex attraction.

Identical twins share the same genes, while fraternal twins share only half. Studies show higher concordance rates for sexual orientation in identical twins compared to fraternal twins, suggesting a genetic component.

Research suggests a possible link between the number of older brothers and a male's sexual orientation. This is hypothesized to be related to a maternal immune response to male fetuses.

The process of becoming aware of, exploring, and accepting one's sexual orientation. It is a journey of self-discovery and understanding.

The assumption that everyone is heterosexual and that it is the dominant sexual orientation. This can often lead to a lack of awareness or consideration of other sexual orientations.

A measure of sexual identity that assesses individuals' commitment to and exploration of their sexual orientation. It focuses on the stages of understanding and accepting one's sexual preferences.

A stage of sexual orientation identity development characterized by a lack of exploration and commitment. It is comparable to Marcia's foreclosure identity status.

A stage of sexual orientation identity development where an individual actively explores and evaluates their sexual orientation. It's similar to Marcia's moratorium identity status.

A stage of sexual orientation identity development with a commitment to one's orientation that follows a period of active exploration and understanding.

The process of making sense of past and present experiences to understand and make meaning of your sexual orientation and identity.

Individuals who have not yet fully explored or understood their sexual orientation may experience uncertainty and may feel conflicted about their attractions or identity.

Individuals who identify as bisexual may experience a more fluid and complex process of exploring and understanding their sexual orientation.