Development and psychometric evaluation of the Sexual Minority Women's Sexual Objectification Experiences Scale

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Women's Health

Background:

• Sexual objectification is linked to body image and eating concerns in women.
• Existing measures primarily reflect heterosexual women's experiences.
• Sexual minority women's unique experiences require tailored assessment tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the Sexual Minority Women's Sexual Objectification Experiences Scale (SMW-SOE).
• To provide a psychometrically sound measure for research and clinical practice.
• To better understand sexual objectification's impact on sexual minority women.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research and existing measures informed initial item development.
• Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to refine the scale.
• Scale validity was assessed through correlations with related constructs in two independent samples.

Main Results:

• The final 17-item SMW-SOE scale demonstrated a robust three-factor structure (Sexualization of Sexual Identity, Intrusive and Explicit Sexual Advances, Body Evaluation).
• Scale scores correlated positively with heterosexist experiences, internalization of appearance standards, and disordered eating.
• Subscale scores showed distinct correlational patterns, supporting their unique contributions.

Conclusions:

• The SMW-SOE is a valid and reliable measure for assessing sexual objectification experiences in sexual minority women.
• Findings highlight the need to consider unique aspects of sexual objectification within this population.
• The scale offers valuable implications for future research and clinical interventions.