Labeling "in-between" orientations: Testing the applicability of the Match-and-Motivation model to sexual orientation labeling

Abstract

The Match-and-Motivation framework (Peterson & Muehlenhard, 2011) was used to understand sexual orientation labeling processes among women with in-between sexual orientations (i.e., toward both same- and other-sex individuals). Both level of matching with a label and motivation to apply or reject a label predicted orientation label use. The factors of degree of same- vs. other-sex orientation and closeness/acceptance within communities were especially influential in the labeling process. For example, use of the bisexual label was often predicted by participants' distance from the center of the orientation continuum, such that the closer individuals were to the center (i.e., equal same- vs. other-sex orientation), the more likely they were to use the label. Use of nonheterosexual labels generally, and lesbian labels specifically, was predicted by more connection to the LGBTQ community. In addition, experiences of anti-bisexual prejudice from both the LGBTQ community and mainstream/heterosexual society affected label use. Match-and-Motivation factors were also found to have different degrees of importance across time points and to vary across different types of relationships. Specifically, orientation toward same- vs. other-sex individuals changed to be more in line with the sex of the relationship partner. Furthermore, connection to the LGBTQ community was stronger during a same-sex relationship. These differences may account for some of the changes in labeling that are often seen in response to romantic relationships (e.g., Diamond 2008). The implications of these findings as well as suggestions for future research are discussed.