Measure of Sexual Identity Exploration and Commitment – MoSIEC
A multidimensional self-report instrument designed to assess the developmental processes of sexual identity exploration, commitment, uncertainty, and synthesis/integration.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Measure of Sexual Identity Exploration and Commitment – MoSIEC was developed by Roger L. Worthington, Rachel L. Navarro, Holly Bielstein Savoy, Dustin Hampton (2008). It is designed to measure Sexual Identity Development. The scale is intended for use with Individuals of any sexual orientation identity.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 22 items organized into 4 factors/subscales: Exploration, Commitment, Synthesis/Integration, Sexual Orientation Identity Uncertainty.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Exploration | 2,3,5,6,8,9,12,19 | 8 |
| Commitment | 10,11,15,16,18,20 | 6 |
| Synthesis/Integration | 4,7,13,17,22 | 5 |
| Sexual Orientation Identity Uncertainty | 1,14,21 | 3 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Very Uncharacteristic of Me, 2 = Uncharacteristic of Me, 3 = Somewhat Uncharacteristic of Me, 4 = Somewhat Characteristic of Me, 5 = Characteristic of Me, 6 = Very Characteristic of Me.
The scale includes 4 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are scored by subscale, with each subscale sum representing a distinct dimension.
Total scores range from 1 to 6. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low level of the dimension: 1 – 2
- Moderate level of the dimension: 3 – 4
- High level of the dimension: 5 – 6
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Cronbach's alpha > 0.70.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.