Exploring the Relational Nature of Identity Gap Management in Sexual Communication

ABSTRACT

Framed through the Communication Theory of Identity, the present study investigates strategies individuals in less normative relationships (e.g., LGBTQ relationships, polyamorous, BDSM) (n = 305) use to manage identity gaps that emerge in their sexual communication. A variety of passive and direct strategies occurred to manage identity-laden tensions amid partnered sexual communication. Findings support previous research, which finds individuals engage in self-acceptance, reframing normativity, label changing, passing, disengagement, hyper engagement, and closeted enactment. In addition, the present study introduces partner engagement as a management strategy for identity gaps, further framing identity gaps as a relational phenomenon.

KEYWORDS:

• Communication theory of identity
• identity gaps
• sexual communication

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Correction

Author’s Bio

Dr. Rubinsky is an Assistant Professor of Communication in the Social Science Department at the University of Maine Augusta. Her research focuses on the intersection of communication and intimacy in a variety of relational types, including LGBTQ relationships, BDSM relationships, and polyamorous relationships.

Ethics Statement

IRB approval was granted by Ohio University’s Institutional Review Board (Reference # 18-E-226). Participants reviewed an IRB-approved informed consent document that explained the goals of the study, that it was voluntary, their rights as a research participant and that they could stop at any time before beginning. The consent page was the survey landing page, participants expressed consent in order to proceed to the survey.

Disclosure statement

The author declares no conflict of interests.

Correction Statement

This article was originally published with errors, which have now been corrected in the online version. Please see Correction (http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17475759.2024.2368953)

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Valerie Rubinsky

Dr. Rubinsky is an Assistant Professor of Communication in the Social Science Department at the University of Maine Augusta. Her research focuses on the intersection of communication and intimacy in a variety of relational and family contexts, including LGBTQ relationships, BDSM relationships, and polyamorous relationships.