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Visualizing Multiple Sexual Identity Responses Using a Network Approach
Christopher A Julian1, Lauren Newmyer1, Wendy D Manning1
1Department of Sociology, Center for Family and Demographic Research, Bowling Green State University.
Socius : Sociological Research for a Dynamic World
|January 15, 2026
Summary
Accurately measuring sexual identity requires moving beyond single choices. A "select all that apply" approach in surveys is vital for representing diverse adults.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Demography
- Public Health
Background:
- Current population-based data infrastructure for measuring sexual identity is evolving.
- Existing measurement techniques often fail to capture the complexity of sexual identity among diverse adults.
- A key limitation is the practice of asking participants to select only one "best" identity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To illustrate the complexity of sexual identity responses using network visualization.
- To highlight the limitations of single-item sexual identity measures.
- To advocate for improved measurement strategies in national surveys.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the National Couples' Health and Time Study.
- Constructed a network visualization to aggregate patterns of multiple identity selections.
- Analyzed respondent patterns for sexual identity choices.
Main Results:
- Relying on single-item responses risks undercounting the diversity of sexual identities.
- Sexual identity is often multifaceted, with individuals identifying with multiple labels.
- Network visualization effectively demonstrates the interconnectedness of various sexual identities.
Conclusions:
- Current single-item measures inadequately represent sexually diverse adults.
- A "select all that apply" response option is essential for accurate representation.
- Advancements in survey methodology are needed to capture nuanced sexual identities.
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