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The Relationship between the Sexual Double Standard and Women's Sexual Health and Comfort
Michael J Marks1, Tara M Busch2, Ashley Wu1
1Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA.
Summary
Women endorsing the Sexual Double Standard (SDS) showed increased concern for sexual reputation. SDS endorsement was linked to more recent OBGYN screenings but not comfort discussing birth control.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Women's Health
Background:
- The Sexual Double Standard (SDS) reflects societal norms that judge women's and men's sexual behavior differently.
- Understanding the impact of SDS endorsement on women's attitudes and health behaviors is crucial for reproductive health.
- Previous research indicates potential links between societal attitudes and individual sexual health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between endorsement of the Sexual Double Standard (SDS) and women's sexual comfort, sexual reputation concerns, and sexual health behaviors.
- To examine how varying levels of SDS endorsement correlate with specific indicators of women's sexual well-being.
- To identify potential areas for future research and intervention regarding SDS and women's reproductive health.
Main Methods:
- A quantitative study involving 705 women who completed an SDS endorsement scale.
- Participants answered questions across three outcome variable categories: sexual comfort, sexual reputation, and sexual health.
- Statistical analyses were used to explore correlations between SDS endorsement and the measured variables.
Main Results:
- Women's endorsement of the SDS was not significantly associated with their sexual comfort.
- A slight positive correlation was found between SDS endorsement and women's concern for their sexual reputation.
- SDS endorsement correlated with a shorter time since the last OBGYN screening but not with discomfort discussing birth control with their OBGYN.
Conclusions:
- While SDS endorsement may influence concerns about sexual reputation and healthcare-seeking behavior (OBGYN screenings), its impact on sexual comfort and communication with healthcare providers regarding contraception requires further investigation.
- The findings highlight the nuanced relationship between societal attitudes like the SDS and women's sexual health experiences.
- Targeted research is needed to fully understand the implications of SDS endorsement on women's perceptions of their sexual reputations and their interactions with OBGYNs.
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