Sexuality and Development Laboratory

University of Utah

Purpose

Our laboratory investigates the development of emotionally and sexually intimate relationships during adolescence and young adulthood, and the effects of these relationships on sexual identity and psychological/physical well-being. Special attention is devoted to the experiences of sexual-minority (i.e., nonheterosexual) adolescents, particularly with regard to gender differences in identity processes and relational development.

Director

Lisa M. Diamond, Ph.D.

Current Research Projects

Longitudinal Investigation of Female Sexual Identity Development

This ongoing longitudinal study has been charting the identity development of 89 adolescent and young adult sexual-minority women since 1994, using open-ended qualitative interviews conducted each 2-3 years. This study focuses on the prevalence of change in young women's sexual attractions, behavior, and identity, and on identifying the personal and environmental factors that promote change versus stability.

Effects of Relationship Participation and Loss on Heterosexual and Sexual-minority Youths

This study uses both qualitative interviews and survey data to examine differences between heterosexual and sexual-minority youths' experiences and fears regarding relationship loss, and the implications of such experiences for mental well-being. The study also examines youths' conceptualizations of friendship and romantic relationships, and how such conceptualizations are shaped by relationship loss and conflict.

Contact Us...

Diamond Laboratory
Department of Psychology
380 South 1530 East, Rm 502
Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0251
phone (801) 581-3924
fax (801) 581-5841
diamond@psych.utah.edu