Sexual Permissiveness: Evidence for a Theory

Abstract

This paper presents evidence in support of a theory of human sexuality. The theory basically argues that sex is highly pleasurable and therefore reinforcing; because it reinforces further contacts with the partner sexual involvement makes the formation of stable bonds love and eventually marriage likely. The prospect of marriage gives a clear incentive for people to control their sexual behavior and for society to regulate it. This theory leads to a variety of theories 6 of which can be tested with survey results from large student (N=668) and national (N=1613) samples. The data generally support the theory. This paper also provides evidence on some neglected variables. Enjoying sex physical attractiveness political ideology views of womens careers and preferred family size all affect sexual permissiveness and many of their effects are substantial both absolutely and in comparison with variables used in previous studies. Using ordinary least squares regression methods quantitative estimates are provided of the independent influence of these and other variables on sexual attitudes and behavior.(AUTHOR ABSTRACT)