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Selecting a Sexual Orientation Label: How Individuals Decide What Label to Use
Zangari, Nicolette Karina Robbins
Zangari, Nicolette Karina Robbins
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Abstract
Individuals are increasingly endorsing sexual identity labels beyond the commonly usedthree-category system of homosexual, heterosexual and bisexual (Callis, 2014; Horner, 2007; Kuper et al,, 2012; Morandini et al., 2017; Russell et al., 2009; Vrangalova & Savin-Williams, 2012). Moreover, research has consistently demonstrated that sexual behavior, attraction, and identity label do not reliably predict one another (Savin-Williams, 2006). Given the complex nature of sexuality, how do individuals decide which sexual orientation label to choose? We explored these questions using the match-and-motivation model as a theoretical framework (Peterson & Muehlenhard, 2007, 2011). In this context, “match” referred to the correspondence between the label’s definition (as the individual understands it) and their own sexuality; “motivation” referred to whether the individual wants the expected outcomes of using that label. Participants were recruited through popular online platforms (i.e., Reddit, Twitter, Facebook, etc.) dedicated to sexual and gender minority communities, as well as through snowball sampling. Using thematic analysis, we identified instances in which match and motivation seemed to influence which labels participants chose to use. Most participants selected labels that matched their gendered patterns of sexual attraction, but some also emphasized match with other aspects like sexual behavior, romantic attraction, and personal values. Participants also reported using a label because they liked something about it— not solely because it seemed like the best match. Participants were motivated to use or not use certain labels by factors such as gaining acceptance from others, liking the history associated with the label, avoiding negative judgments from others, and minimizing the risk of physical violence. Approaches to evaluating match were also influenced by motivation. That is, participants varied in their preferences for labels that were ambiguous or precise, that communicated certain information to others and that they felt qualified to use. Our findings highlight the between-group similarity and the within-group diversity of sexual orientation categories in terms of how individuals defined their own labels. Implications for sexual fluidity, research, and clinical practice are discussed.
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Date
2021-08-31
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University of Kansas
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Keywords
Clinical psychology, Labeling, Match-and-motivation model, Sexual diversity, Sexual Identity, Sexual Orientation, Sexual Orientation Labels