Identity development (Reading)

You can find most information on identity development and coming out in Module 3, but for participants who work as psychologists with LGBTQI+ persons, here is some complementary information.

There are many models of identity development, but Erikson’s model of development is probably the most known one. According to this model of development, the formation of identity is a complex process and there are several tasks known as normative crisis along the way to be accomplished. Since sexual orientations are unique, researchers assumed that the development of a lesbian or gay identity is different from a heterosexual one, and so is the development of a bisexual or trans identity. Building up an identity of marginalised group membership can mean the integration of stigmatised aspects.

Gay and lesbian identity development is different from bisexual identity development, as bisexuals can experience stigma in both the heterosexual and the LG communities. When we talk about trans identity, it is a different aspect as the individual is coming to terms with having a different body from what their identity would match with. Also note that for trans individuals, developing their sexual orientation is a completely different process from developing a trans identity.

It is important for the practitioner to familiarise themselves with the sexual orientation identity models, as it can affect the interactions, the interventions and the focus of the therapy. Be aware of the coming out process as well, as the two can’t be completely separated.

One of the first sexual identity development models was introduced by Cass in 1979, the 6 stages of which we have outlined in Module 3. Here we outline a few more points regarding the stages, which might be useful for psychologists. We suggest exploring with participants what emotions, thoughts, needs and coping mechanisms can be present at each stage – and don’t forget to remind psychologists to also focus on positive feelings, as every stage contains something positive and liberating too.

• Stage 1 – Identity Confusion: Repression or denial is a usual occurrence at this stage.
• Stage 2 – Identity Comparison: The dilemma of redefining who one is comes up at this stage. At this point the previous assumptions about one’s self and picture of the future can be challenged, and one has to rewrite or replace these. The feeling of alienation drives the individual to seek help either in a community or in therapy. However, the individual might still stick to presenting a heterosexual image of themselves. Another approach is when the individual somewhat accepts their sexual orientation but is not happy with it, or because of fear of rejection they don’t act on their sexual orientation. Individuals can still experience strong negative feelings about homosexuality and they avoid anything in connection to that. This strategy in the long-run can result in depressive symptoms.
• Stage 3 – Identity Tolerance: Individuals seek opportunities to join the community, but it’s still not full acceptance, rather toleration of one’s identity. This can result in bad experiences, but positive contact can enhance the positive feeling about one’s identity, provide role models, help finding a partner etc. Those who have affirming experiences can move easier towards self- acceptance.
• Stage 4 – Identity Acceptance: The individual has bigger access to the subculture at this stage as well as a greater number of supportive connections and friendships. At this point some still want to keep their gay identity private.
• Stage 5 – Identity Pride: The person starts to consider the rejection of the wider society as no good – instead of blaming themselves. The individual is now ready to explore the whole of the LGBTQI+ subculture. They won’t try to conceal their identity, this helps to balance the public and private identities that earlier were separated.

Stage 6 – Identity Synthesis: Identity becomes more elaborate, giving space to acknowledging the existing differences and similarities between the self and both the LGBTQI+ and heterosexual communities.