We are researchers from Towson University conducting research on the experiences and expression of sexual orientation among self-identified queer individuals. If you choose to participate in this research, you will be asked to complete a brief survey, which should take approximately 30-45 minutes. During the survey, you will be asked to rate how strongly you agree with statements about yourself and others regarding thoughts and experiences specific to your sexual identity as queer, as well as thoughts about your feelings and experience of others.

There are minimal risks associated with your participation. Risk may be more likely if you are uncomfortable thinking and answering questions about your sexual identity. Your participation is entirely voluntary. You are not obligated to respond to any questions that you are uncomfortable answering. The survey is designed so that you can indicate "no answer" for individual questions and remain in the study. You may also withdraw from the study at any time without incurring any penalties.

The Towson University Institutional Review Board has approved this study. If you have any questions regarding this research or its purposes, please contact the faculty advisor for this project, Dr. Paz Galupo, at pgalupo@towson.edu. If you have any questions pertaining to your rights as a participant, please contact Dr. Elizabeth Katz, Chairperson of the Institutional Review Board for the Protection of Human Participants, at (410)704-2236.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Zoe M. Kolker
M. Paz Galupo
Towson University