Identity Management Strategies Scales (IMSS)

To appear heterosexual, I sometimes talk about fictional dates with members of the opposite sex.

I sometimes talk about opposite-sex relationships in my past, while I avoid mentioning more recent same-sex relationships.

I sometimes comment on, or display interest in, members of the opposite sex to give the impression that I am straight.

I have adjusted my level of participation in sports to appear heterosexual.

I make sure that I don’t behave the way people expect gays or lesbians to behave.

I sometimes laugh at “fag” or “dyke” jokes to fit in with my straight co-workers.

I avoid co-workers who frequently discuss sexual matters.

I avoid situations (e.g., long lunches, parties) where heterosexual co-workers are likely to ask me personal questions.

I let people know that I find personal questions to be inappropriate so that I am not faced with them.

I avoid personal questions by never asking others about their personal lives.

In order to keep my personal life private, I refrain from “mixing business with pleasure.”

I withdraw from conversations when the topic turns to things like dating or interpersonal relationships.

I let people think I am a “loner” so that they won’t question my apparent lack of a relationship.

In my daily activities, I am open about my homosexuality whenever it comes up.

Most of my co-workers know that I am gay/lesbian.

Whenever I’m asked about being gay/lesbian, I always answer in an honest and matter-of-fact way.

It’s okay for my gay and lesbian friends to call me at work.

My co-workers know of my interest in gay and lesbian issues.

I look for opportunities to tell my co-workers that I am gay/lesbian.

When a policy or law is discriminatory against gay men and lesbians, I tell people what I think.

I let my co-workers know that I’m proud to be gay/lesbian.

I openly confront others when I hear a homophobic remark or joke.

I display objects (e.g., photographs, magazines, symbols) which suggest that I am gay/lesbian.