A framework for conceptualizing reporting bias and its antecedents in interviews assessing human sexuality

Abstract

The present paper reviews conceptual models of self‐presentation bias in interview situations that focus on assessments of human sexuality. An heuristic framework is developed that synthesizes these models to focus on self‐presentation/self‐disclosure bias as a function of emotional distress and threat to self‐esteem, both intermediate outcomes that are influenced by four general factors: Respondent, Interviewer, Task, and Contextual. Empirical research within each of these four general factors is discussed, and areas for further research are outlined.