Models and measures of sexual orientation

Abstract

This chapter provides an in-depth examination of the varied models and measures most commonly used to determine sexual orientation, in general, or bisexuality, in particular. The chapter identifies the components of and the strengths and weaknesses of each. The chapter presents each chronologically starting with the Kinsey Heterosexuality-Homosexuality Rating Scale, followed by the Klein Sexual Orientation Grid, Storms Erotic Response and Orientation Scale, the Sexual Identity Model, the Multidimensional Scale of Sexuality, Savin-Williams Assessment of Sexual Orientation, and, finally, Sexual Configurations Theory. Following the individual assessment of each model, the chapter concludes with general critiques of all existing models and offers some recommendations for the establishment of future models and measures with the goal of better capturing the complexity of bisexual orientation and the goal of creating greater synergy in research assessment and more accuracy in estimating the number of bisexual individuals.