Description

The Sexual Polarity Scale (SPS-60) is a psychological instrument designed to assess sexual polarity, defined as the tendency to adopt and express traditionally masculine or feminine traits within interpersonal relationships. It examines how these patterns may influence relationship dynamics and individual satisfaction.

Purpose

The main purpose of the SPS-60 is to help researchers and practitioners understand the role of sexual polarity in interpersonal and intimate relationships. It can also support the examination of how these tendencies relate to relationship satisfaction, communication, and emotional intimacy.

Scoring and Analysis

The scale uses a Likert-type response format, in which participants rate statements concerning the expression of masculine or feminine traits in their relationships. Total scores can be used to describe individual patterns and preferences related to sexual polarity.

Statistical analysis may include descriptive statistics, correlations, group comparisons, and regression models examining relationships between sexual polarity and other psychosocial variables.

Applications

The SPS-60 can be used in psychological and social research, relationship counseling, and studies of interpersonal functioning, particularly when investigating gender-related traits, relationship dynamics, and emotional intimacy.

References

Bem, S. L. (1981). Bem Sex-Role Inventory: Professional Manual. Consulting Psychologists Press.

Gilligan, C. (1982). In a Different Voice: Psychological Theory and Women’s Development. Harvard University Press.

Johnson, S. M. (2004). The Practice of Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy: Creating Connection. Brunner-Routledge.

Wood, W., & Eagly, A. H. (2015). Two traditions of research on gender identity. Sex Roles, 73(11–12), 461–473.