This chapter updates Gates’ (2013) report on the spatial distribution of sexual minority individuals and same-sex couples in the U.S. We first review the evolution of the U.S. Census Bureau’s methods for measuring these populations. Current research is then summarized to highlight the geography of sexual minority adults and same-sex couples. Utilizing the Household Pulse Survey (HPS) and the American Community Survey (ACS), we present recent prevalence estimates across various geographic indicators. The HPS offers novel insights into state-level concentrations of sexual minority individuals, while the ACS provides detailed spatial representations of same-sex couples across 2487 PUMAs. Our findings show that states with high concentrations of sexually diverse individuals also tend to have high concentrations of same-sex couples, though distribution within states varies. We discuss the implications of relying solely on spatial characteristics, noting the potential underestimation of key health determinants such as racial segregation, structural stigma, and socioeconomic status. We conclude with recommendations for future research and data collection efforts to better capture the complexities of sexual and gender identities, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive and inclusive demographic measures.

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Prevalence and Spatial Distribution of Sexual Minority Individuals and Same-Sex Couples in the U.S.: Opportunities and Challenges Moving Forward

  • Krista K. Westrick-Payne,
  • Francesca A. Marino,
  • Wendy D. Manning

摘要

This chapter updates Gates’ (2013) report on the spatial distribution of sexual minority individuals and same-sex couples in the U.S. We first review the evolution of the U.S. Census Bureau’s methods for measuring these populations. Current research is then summarized to highlight the geography of sexual minority adults and same-sex couples. Utilizing the Household Pulse Survey (HPS) and the American Community Survey (ACS), we present recent prevalence estimates across various geographic indicators. The HPS offers novel insights into state-level concentrations of sexual minority individuals, while the ACS provides detailed spatial representations of same-sex couples across 2487 PUMAs. Our findings show that states with high concentrations of sexually diverse individuals also tend to have high concentrations of same-sex couples, though distribution within states varies. We discuss the implications of relying solely on spatial characteristics, noting the potential underestimation of key health determinants such as racial segregation, structural stigma, and socioeconomic status. We conclude with recommendations for future research and data collection efforts to better capture the complexities of sexual and gender identities, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive and inclusive demographic measures.