(092) What is Sexuality?: Moving Toward Inclusive and Comprehensive Measurement

Abstract Introduction Sexuality is complex and multifaceted, broadly composed of psychological, physiological, interpersonal, identity, social/political phenomena. The term “sexuality” used inconsistently in the literature, both how it defined by researchers measured. Some define sexuality a narrow, heteronormative, genital-focused way that negates subjective experiences individuals, turn, affecting construct measured (i.e., measuring sexual function exclusively, overlooking measures pleasure, self-esteem, satisfaction). This limited view ignores many psychosocial resilience factors are integral to results non-representative measurement tools, especially for equity-seeking groups transgender non-binary (TNB) or intersex individuals provided presume binary anatomy). In order develop more accurate comprehensive inclusive definition warranted. Objective cross-sectional exploratory survey first formally characterize assessing members public describe through open-ended questions. Recruitment strategies were aimed towards gender minorities, BIPOC, consensual non-monogamous populations) ensure lived these diverse communities represented definition. Methods A total 456 (Mage = 28.50, SD 9.57) identifying as Man (N 172), Woman 191), Non-Binary 72), Transgender 43), Other 13) recruited an online asking them sexuality, then identify biological, behavioural, social components sexuality. Analyses included thematic analysis several Results from resulted following sexuality; multifaceted concept uniquely experienced expressed. It encompasses broad range elements which varying degrees. primarily reflecting one’s emotions, mental state, attractions, desires, fantasies, identity. Psychological give meaning expressed via physiological behavioural including objective bodily reactions, various physical behaviours, different types activity. also concept, reflected people’s interactions, relationships, connections others. influenced society culture, historically present day. Specifically, with norms, taboos, scripts, stigma influence Conclusions An general emphasized importance psychological components, well elements. demonstrates its Therefore, our next step generate measure accounts people feel about their Disclosure No