The Self-Acceptance of Sexuality Inventory (SASI): Development and Validation

Jake Camp, Silia Vitoratou, Katharine A. Rimes*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Due to exposure to societal stigma, self-acceptance of sexuality can be a challenging process for individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or with other minority sexual identities (LGBQ+). Quantitative research in this area is limited, and there is a lack of appropriately validated self-report questionnaires to assess self-acceptance of sexuality. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to develop a measure of self-acceptance of sexuality. Items for the new Self-Acceptance of Sexuality Inventory (SASI) were developed in consultation with psychologists and members of the general population identifying as LGBQ+. From a sample of participants experiencing nonheterosexual attractions (N = 1,619), dimensionality (via exploratory and confirmatory factor analyzes), measurement invariance, and reliability were assessed. Construct validity of the SASI was investigated in a subsample (n = 1,217) via hypothesized associations with alternative measures of self-acceptance, sexuality-specific processes, resilience factors, and mental health outcomes. Differences in SASI scores were also investigated between those who identified as LGBQ+ and those who were unsure/questioning. The final version of the SASI included 10 items comprising two factors. The SASI had satisfactory internal consistency and test–retest reliability, and evidence of good construct validity. Our research provides evidence of different constructions of self-acceptance across people with different sexual orientations, gender identities, sex assigned at birth, and ages. The SASI is a promising new measure of self-acceptance of sexuality. Further investigations into different understandings of self-acceptance are required.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)92-109
Number of pages18
JournalPsychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity
Volume9
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Gender Studies
  • General Psychology

Keywords

  • Identity development
  • Lgbq+
  • Minority stress
  • Self-acceptance
  • Sexual orientation

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