Unifying Model of Sexual Identity Development

The Unifying Model of [...] Identity Development, developed by Frank Dillon, Roger Worthington, and Bonnie Moradi, is a [...] identity model that draws from previous identity models such as the Homosexual Identity Development Model, the Life Span Model, and the Model of Gay and Lesbian Identity Development to create a model that can be applied to varying [...] identities. Dillon, Worthington, and Moradi described [...] identity development as dependent on three factors: biopsychosocial processes, individual identity, and social identity. The model uses five non-linear statuses that can be used to demonstrate individual and social identity.

Five Statuses

Compulsory heterosexuality

This status consists of an individual’s commitment to heterosexuality within the lens of the culture that the individual is a part of.

Active Exploration

This status consists of an intentional exploration of an individual’s [...] identity both cognitively and behaviorally.

Diffusion

This status consists of the lack of intentional exploration or commitment to an individual’s [...] identity.

Deepening and commitment to status

This status consists of an individual committing to a [...] identity that involves being able to better identify things such as one’s [...] orientation or preferences.

Synthesis

This status consists of an individual achieving a [...] self-concept.

Research supporting the Unifying Model of [...] Identity Development

This model was developed by “teams of scholars working in various combinations over time to collaborate and develop ideas to provide empirical support for a new theoretical model”.