Examining Sexuality-Based Stereotypes Through a Relational Density Theory Framework

The LGBTQIA2S + community has historically endured significant forms of discrimination around the world (Brummett & Campo-Engelstein, 2021; Casey et al., 2019; Lee & Ostergard Jr, 2017). The current research explored verbal behavior involved in stereotyping that may contribute to such maltreatment. Relational Density Theory (RDT; Belisle & Dixon, 2020) offers a model for conceptualizing relational strength of environmental stimuli, such as those contributing to stereotypes based on sexuality. Participants in the present study completed a multidimensional scaling procedure twice using an RDT framework by rating the degree of relatedness between stimulus pairings. Stimuli included a series of sexualities (e.g., gay man), as well as adjectives (e.g., masculine). A brief Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT; Hayes et al., 1999) based defusion exercise was utilized to weaken relational classes involved in stereotyping. Participant responses at pretest indicated that straight men are perceived as more natural, realistic, masculine, monogamous, and athletic compared to straight women, gay men, lesbian women, bisexual men, and bisexual women. After completing a defusion intervention, momentary changes were observed in relational classes at posttest in which all identity stimuli were seen as highly related to one another. The findings in this line of research suggest two things. First, relational framing plays a key role in the development and maintenance of stereotypes in the context of sexual orientation and gender identity. Second, interventions targeting aspects of psychological flexibility, specifically cognitive defusion, may have utility in creating more inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA2S + individuals.