Advancing Research on LGBTQ Microaggressions: A Psychometric Scoping Review of Measures

J Homosex. 2019;66(10):1345-1379. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2018.1539581. Epub 2018 Dec 24.

Abstract

Understanding the nature and consequences of LGBTQ microaggressions is critical to fostering equity and wellbeing among sexual and gender minorities. Yet little guidance is available for researchers seeking psychometrically robust measures of subtle LGBTQ slights, invalidations, and insults. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review of multi-item quantitative measures that included at least one question addressing LGBTQ microaggressions. This article reports the study characteristics and psychometric properties of 27 original measures we identified and their subsequent adaptations. The article concludes with an assessment of strengths and limitations of LGBTQ microaggression measurement, highlighting aspects of measurement innovation on which future researchers can build. As microaggressions remain a powerful and underexplored mechanism of sexual and gender minority oppression, this review will help to both advance methodological quality in this critical research area and enhance our understanding of how microaggressions manifest in the lives of LGBTQ individuals.

Keywords: LGBTQ; Microaggressions; discrimination; gender identity; measurement; reliability and validity; review; sexual orientation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aggression*
  • Behavioral Research*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Psychometrics
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*
  • Social Discrimination*
  • Young Adult