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A multidimensional measure of sexual objectification in intimate relationships: The Inventory of Partner Sexual
Rebecca L Brock1, Sarah J Gervais1, Olivia R Checkalski1
1Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Abstract:
In this study, we developed the Inventory of Partner Sexual Objectification (IPSO) and demonstrated its robust psychometric properties (i.e., high internal consistency, convergent and criterion validity) in a sample of 981 community participants in self-defined committed relationships. This theoretically grounded and factor-analytically derived instrument consists of 29 items providing a multidimensional and hierarchical assessment of partner objectification. The IPSO includes one general scale of received sexual objectification (i.e., the person feels reduced to their appearance and sexual attributes for the use of their partner) and three specific subscales reflecting unique manifestations of objectification in intimate relationships, including body autonomy denial (e.g., the partner expresses strong preferences about appearance), body neglect (e.g., feeling invisible and unattractive to the partner), and (less) unconditional body appreciation (e.g., feeling attractive to the partner regardless of societal standards, feeling valued as much for nonphysical as physical attributes). Results demonstrate the potential for the IPSO to explain a range of individual and relational outcomes central to objectification theory (Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997) and intimate relationship frameworks. Results also show the distinctive nature of objectification in the context of intimate relationships and highlight the importance of striking a delicate balance between conveying respectful sexual interest and desire toward partners while not reducing them to their sexual function and appearance. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).
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