Developing an Assessment of Sexual Identity Management for Lesbian and Gay Workers

Abstract

Prior research examining disclosure of sexual orientation at work suggests that lesbian and gay people employ diverse strategies for managing this nonvisible aspect of their identity. Yet, research concerning sexual identity management has been hampered by inadequate conceptual definition and measurement. This paper reports initial development of the Workplace Sexual Identity Management Measure (WSIMM) based on a conceptual model of lesbian and gay identity management supported by prior qualitative research. Psychometric properties of the WSIMM were examined for a sample of 172 student affairs professionals. Results suggest the WSIMM successfully assesses a continuum of identity management strategies and lend partial support for individual scales. Recommendations concerning appropriate uses and further refinement of the measure are provided.