JSM 2014 Home
Online Program Home
My Program

Abstract Details

Activity Number: 148
Type: Invited
Date/Time: Monday, August 4, 2014 : 10:30 AM to 12:20 PM
Sponsor: Government Statistics Section
Abstract #310898
Title: Development and Resulting Data of a Sexual Identity Measure
Author(s): Kristen Miller and Jim Dahlhamer and Jennifer Madans*+
Companies: NCHS and NCHS and NCHS
Keywords: Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual ; Question Evaluation ; Question Design
Abstract:

Nationally representative health data of the LGBT population are required to achieve health equity and improve the health of LGBT people. To this end, multiple health surveys have written 'sexual orientation' questions. However, sexuality is a complex phenomenon incorporating numerous and contradictory meanings which create a major challenge in developing a single accurate measure. Existing questions have generated non-comparable estimates across surveys as well as high rates of missing data, particularly among low socioeconomic status and Spanish speaking respondents. Flawed data can lead to a mischaracterization of sexual minorities and, in the end, promote inadequate policy and health programs. In 2011-2012, the National Center for Health Statistics developed and evaluated a sexual identity question for the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to develop and test a final measure designed to account for the complexities. This paper will describe and present results from the development and testing process. Additionally, 2013 NHIS data will be presented, illustrating how estimates are improved by the new design.


Authors who are presenting talks have a * after their name.

Back to the full JSM 2014 program




2014 JSM Online Program Home

For information, contact jsm@amstat.org or phone (888) 231-3473.

If you have questions about the Professional Development program, please contact the Education Department.

The views expressed here are those of the individual authors and not necessarily those of the JSM sponsors, their officers, or their staff.

ASA Meetings Department  •  732 North Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314  •  (703) 684-1221  •  meetings@amstat.org
Copyright © American Statistical Association.