As I began to look for a project I began to realize there was very little scientifically rigorous literature detailing the experiences of gay men and lesbian women. For example, much of the work has had small unrepresentative populations or tests that did not measure what they were supposed to measure. At worst the surveys/ research were conducted by anti-gay or non- affirming GLBT groups. In an attempt to represent the broadest range of experience I am contacting the administrations of many different Christian organizations in an attempt to reach out to different groups whose voices have not necessarily been represented in the research.

Furthermore, our faith/religion/ spirituality can be a mix of several double edged swords both helping and at times harming us; this is where my interest in faith maturity comes in. In some cases we can start to believe different parts of the negative messages society has about our sexuality which is also known as internalized homonegativity.

“Dear Research Participant:Your participation in a research project is requested. The title of the study is “The relationship Between Faith Maturity Development and Internalized Homonegativity”. The research is being conducted by William Skelton, a graduate student in the Psychology Department at Barry University, and it is seeking information that will be useful in the fields of Psychology of Human Sexuality and Psychology of Religion. The aims of the research are to examine internalized homonegativity and faith maturity. In accordance with these aims, the following procedure will be used: questionnaires called Reactions to Homosexuality Scale, the Lesbian Internalized Homonegativity Scale, the Faith Maturity Scale, and a Demographics Scale follows this letter. I anticipate the number of participants to be 600. If you decide to participate in this research, you will be asked to do the following: Answer the questions on the following scales as appropriate: Reactions to Homosexuality Scale, the Lesbian Internalized Homonegativity Scale, the Faith Maturity Scale, and a Demographics Scale. The questionnaire is estimated to take no more than 40 minutes to complete.

Your consent to be a research participant is strictly voluntary and should you decline to participate or should you choose to drop out at any time during the study, there will be no adverse effects. If you are a student there will be no effect on your grades.

There are no risks of involved in this study. The following procedures will be used to minimize these risks: You can skip any questions you do not want to answer. There are no direct benefits to you for participating in this study; however, your participation will contribute to research in the areas of Psychology of Human Sexuality and Psychology of Religion. If you are a student you may be able to receive extra credit for your participation. Print a copy of this cover letter as proof of your participation.

All data is stored in a password-protected database at a web hosting site that provides top of the line virtual and physical security. By completing and submitting this electronic survey you are acknowledging that you are at least 18-years-old and that you voluntarily agree to participate in the study.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the study or your participation in the study, you may contact me, William Skelton through Andrea Bello in the department of psychology, at (305) 899-3270, or by email[email protected], or my supervisor Dr. Muscarella, at (305) 899- 3275 or by email[email protected]. You may also contact the Institutional Review Board point of contact, Barbara Cook, at (305) 899- 3020.

Thank you for your participation.

Sincerely, William Skelton”