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Development of the virginity beliefs scale
Jonas Eriksson1, Terry P Humphreys
1a Psychology Department , Trent University.
Journal of Sex Research
|January 18, 2013
Summary
This study introduces the Virginity Beliefs Scale, measuring perceptions of virginity as a gift, stigma, or process. The scale helps understand diverse views on first sexual intercourse experiences.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Human Sexuality
Background:
- Previous research on first sexual intercourse focused on demographic predictors.
- Carpenter (2002, 2005) proposed three metaphors for virginity: gift, stigma, and process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a scale measuring virginity metaphors.
- To operationalize Carpenter's framework for empirical research.
Main Methods:
- Study 1: Factor analysis of 50 items (N=223) to identify scale items.
- Scale validation using gender-role beliefs and affective reactions to first intercourse.
- Study 2: Confirmatory factor analysis (N=359) to confirm scale structure.
Main Results:
- A 22-item Virginity Beliefs Scale was developed with three subscales: gift (10 items), stigma (8 items), and process (4 items).
- The scale demonstrated strong psychometric properties in both studies.
- Subscales showed significant correlations with gender-role beliefs and affective reactions.
Conclusions:
- The Virginity Beliefs Scale effectively measures individuals' perceptions of virginity based on Carpenter's metaphors.
- The scale offers a valuable tool for future research on sexual beliefs and behaviors.
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