Identity and Daily Experience in Queer Emerging Adults

Abstract

This study examined possible links between aspects of sexual orientation identity and daily experiences of queer emerging adults ages 18-24 in a sample of 20 college students and non-college students in the Midwest, using the experience sampling method (ESM). Participants reported momentary experiences on approximately 49 occasions across one week, with a total number of 796 moments of experience in the data set. Participants also completed a Lesbian Gay Bisexual Identity Scale (LGBIS). The study examined associations among momentary identity variables, momentary contextual variables, and global assessments of identity. Results indicated that positive experience (more positive mood, less negative moods, more uplifts, fewer heterosexist hassles, more positive experience of being queer, and more affirming/supportive environmental ratings), flow, and self-determination were associated with clear momentary outness and satisfaction with level of outness. Momentary identity-relevant experiences were also associated with global identity measures.