Who we are together: identity negotiation in different-orientation relationships

Author

• Justin TackettFollow

Date of Award

2026

Degree Name

Communication Studies

College

College of Liberal Arts

Type of Degree

M.A.

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Dr. Richard G. Jones Jr.

Second Advisor

Dr. Clinton Brown

Third Advisor

Dr. Julie Snyder-Yuly

Abstract

viii Abstract This qualitative study explored how partners in different-orientation (dif-orientation) relationships experienced and navigated identity across the five frames of the Communication Theory of Identity (CTI): personal, enacted, relational, communal, and material. Dif-orientation relationships, romantic partnerships where individuals identify with different sexual orientations, represent a form of intercultural communication involving partners from distinct sexual orientation communities who must negotiate different cultural frameworks regarding sexuality, relationships, and identity expression. Despite growing recognition of diverse relationship configurations, little research currently examines how partners in these relationships manage identity gaps, or misalignments between different frames of identity, and what communication strategies they employ to bridge these gaps. Using semi-structured interviews with five college students in dif-orientation relationships, this study used thematic analysis to identify patterns in participants’ lived experiences. The research addressed two primary questions: (1) How do partners in differing-orientation relationships experience and navigate identity gaps across the five frames of CTI? and (2) What communication strategies do partners employ to bridge identity gaps in differing-orientation relationships? By conceptualizing sexual orientation as a cultural identity that functions across CTI’s frames and examining the unique challenges facing dif-orientation couples, this study extended CTI scholarship while providing practical insights into how these couples create meaningful relationships that honor both individual authenticity and relational unity. Findings contributed to understanding identity negotiation in marginalized relationship configurations and informed support resources for couples navigating differing sexual orientation identities.

Subject(s)

Identity (Philosophical concept)

Communication.

Sexual orientation.

Romantic relationships.

Intercultural communication.

Marshall University.

West Virginia.

Recommended Citation

Tackett, Justin, "Who we are together: identity negotiation in different-orientation relationships" (2026). Theses, Dissertations and Capstones. 2105.
https://mds.marshall.edu/etd/2105