Revision and extension of a multidimensional measure of sexual minority identity: The Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Scale.

TLDR

The authors conducted two studies to develop and evaluate a revised 27‑item Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Scale (LGBIS). The revised LGBIS incorporates more inclusive language and two new subscales for identity affirmation and centrality, and its structure was examined through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses in two samples. The analyses confirmed an 8‑factor structure, provided preliminary validity and reliability evidence, and suggest the LGBIS offers an efficient tool for assessing multiple dimensions of sexual minority identity.

Abstract

Two studies were conducted to investigate a revised and extended version of the Lesbian and Gay Identity Scale (Mohr & Fassinger, 2000): the 27-item Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Scale (LGBIS). This revision features more inclusive and less stigmatizing language than the previous version and includes 2 new subscales assessing identity affirmation and centrality. In Study 1, an exploratory factor analysis (n = 297) and a confirmatory factor analysis (n = 357) supported an 8-factor solution assessing acceptance concerns, concealment motivation, identity uncertainty, internalized homonegativity, difficulty with the identity development process, identity superiority, identity affirmation, and identity centrality. Predicted associations with measures of identity-related constructs and psychosocial functioning provided preliminary validity evidence for LGBIS scores in a college student population. Study 2 (N = 51) provided evidence of the test-retest and internal consistency reliability of LGBIS scores. These studies suggest that the LGBIS may offer researchers an efficient means of assessing multiple dimensions of sexual orientation minority identity.