Sexual Identity Study. Using Cass. Homosexual Identity Formation. A Theoretical Model
Sexual Identity Study. Using Cass. Homosexual Identity Formation. A Theoretical Model
Sexual Identity Study. Using Cass. Homosexual Identity Formation. A Theoretical Model
Possible Responses: May begin to grieve for losses and the things she or he
will give up by embracing their sexual orientation. May compartmentalize their
own sexuality. Accepts lesbian, gay definition of behavior but maintains
"heterosexual" identity of self. Tells oneself, "It's only temporary"; I'm just in love
with this particular woman/man," etc.
Possible Needs: Will be very important that the person develops own
definitions. Will need information about sexual identity, lesbian, gay community
resources, encouragement to talk about loss of heterosexual life expectations.
May be permitted to keep some "heterosexual" identity (it is not an all or none
issue).
3. Identity Tolerance: "I'm not the only one." The person acknowledges that
he or she is likely gay or lesbian and seeks out other gay and lesbian
people to combat feelings of isolation. Increased commitment to being
lesbian or gay.
Task: Decrease social alienation by seeking out lesbians and gays.
Possible Responses: Beginning to have language to talk and think about the
issue. Recognition that being lesbian or gay does not preclude other options.
Accentuates difference between self and heterosexuals. Seeks out lesbian and
gay culture (positive contact leads to more positive sense of self, negative
contact leads to devaluation of the culture, stops growth). May try out variety of
stereotypical roles.
Possible Needs: Be supported in exploring own shame feelings derived from
heterosexism, as well as external heterosexism. Receive support in finding
positive lesbian, gay community connections. It is particularly important for the
person to know community resources.
4. Identity Acceptance: "I will be okay." The person attaches a positive
connotation to his or her gay or lesbian identity and accepts rather than
tolerates it. There is continuing and increased contact with the gay and
lesbian culture.
Task: Deal with inner tension of no longer subscribing to society's norm, attempt
to bring congruence between private and public view of self.
Possible Responses: Accepts gay or lesbian self-identification. May
compartmentalize "gay life." Maintains less and less contact with heterosexual
community. Attempts to "fit in" and "not make waves" within the gay and lesbian
community. Begins some selective disclosures of sexual identity. More social
coming out; more comfortable being seen with groups of men or women that are
identified as "gay." More realistic evaluation of situation.