Different Patterns of Sexual Identity Development over Time: Implications for the Psychological Adjustment of Lesbian, Gay, And Bisexual Youths‪.‬

The formation and integration of a lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) identity can be a complex and often difficult process. Although youths from other minority backgrounds are raised in families and communities that are supportive of their minority identity, LGB youths often struggle to accept their sexual identity in the context of ignorance, prejudice, and often violence against same-sex sexuality (Bontempo & D'Augelli, 2002; Huebner, Rebchook, & Kegeles, 2004). However, not all LGB youths experience such adverse reactions nor do all LGB youths experience difficulty in accepting and integrating their developing sexual identity (Eccles, Sayegh, Fortenberry, & Zimet, 2004; Savin-Williams, 2005). For those who do experience difficulties with their sexual identity development, poorer psychological adjustment may result. This report examines whether differences in the formation and integration of an LGB identity are associated with the subsequent psychological adjustment of LGB youths. We base our conceptualization of sexual identity development on the work of Erik Erikson. The process of identity development consists of identity formation in which the internal reality of the individual begins to assert and demand its expression as earlier identifications are discarded or reconfigured (Erikson, 1968, 1956/1980). Identity development also consists of identity integration, in which a commitment to and integration of the evolving identity with the totality of the self are expected, although not guaranteed (e.g., Kroger, 2007; Marcia, 1966). Identity integration involves an acceptance of the unfolding identity, its continuity over time and settings, and a desire to be known by others as such, none of which is surprising given identity integration concerns an inner commitment and solidarity with who one is (Erikson, 1968, 1946/1980). The antithesis of identity integration is diffusion or confusion; a sense of self as other or inauthentic either because an invalid identity has been assumed or foisted upon one, or because one is searching for a meaningful identity (Erikson, 1968, 1946/1980, 1956/1980). Although most theories of LGB identity development do not explicitly reference Erikson's more general theory of identity development, the general notions of identity formation and integration are implicit in the models (Cass, 1979; Chapman & Brannock, 1987; Fassinger & Miller, 1996; Troiden, 1989).