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Identity Formation Among Gay Men, Lesbian Women, Bisexual and Heterosexual Samples: Associations with Purpose in Life, Life Satisfaction, Pathways to Purpose and Implications for Positive Sexual Minority Identity

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  • David Collict

    (University of Toronto)

  • Gabrielle N. Pfund

    (Washington University in St. Louis)

  • Gibran Omar Rodriguez de los Reyes

    (University of Toronto)

  • Patrick L. Hill

    (Washington University in St. Louis)

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that coherent identity formation is promotive of purpose in life and positive well-being outcomes, such as lower depression and anxiety, and higher self-esteem. However, research is needed to understand how these associations operate concerning specific identities. The current study sought to examine whether sexual identity commitment, in-depth exploration, and reconsideration were predictive of life satisfaction, purpose in life, and pathways to purpose outcomes. A sample of 273 participants (age: M = 43.49, SD = 17.35) was recruited in Canada and the United States through an online survey, answering questionnaires addressing these variables. Results indicated that greater sexual identity commitment was associated with higher levels of purpose in life and that these associations held regardless of sexual identity. Moreover, greater purpose in life was associated with more life satisfaction irrespective of sexual identity as well. Lastly, pathways to purpose (e.g. reactive purpose development) was not different based on sexual identity. Implications are discussed concerning sexual minority health and future directions for qualitative investigations.

Suggested Citation

  • David Collict & Gabrielle N. Pfund & Gibran Omar Rodriguez de los Reyes & Patrick L. Hill, 2021. "Identity Formation Among Gay Men, Lesbian Women, Bisexual and Heterosexual Samples: Associations with Purpose in Life, Life Satisfaction, Pathways to Purpose and Implications for Positive Sexual Minor," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 22(5), pages 2125-2142, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jhappi:v:22:y:2021:i:5:d:10.1007_s10902-020-00313-w
    DOI: 10.1007/s10902-020-00313-w
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Patrick Hill & Anthony Burrow & Kendall Bronk, 2016. "Persevering with Positivity and Purpose: An Examination of Purpose Commitment and Positive Affect as Predictors of Grit," Journal of Happiness Studies, Springer, vol. 17(1), pages 257-269, February.
    2. Mustanski, B.S. & Garofalo, R. & Emerson, E.M., 2010. "Mental health disorders, psychological distress, and suicidality in a diverse sample of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youths," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 100(12), pages 2426-2432.
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