Description

The Sexual Socialization Instrument is a psychometric tool designed to evaluate the process by which individuals acquire knowledge, values, behaviors, and attitudes related to sexuality from their social environment. This instrument includes questions covering various sources of socialization such as family, peers, media, and the educational system.

Objective

The primary objective of the Sexual Socialization Instrument is to examine how different socialization sources influence the development of sexual identity and related behaviors. The tool is used to understand the influences that shape sexual attitudes and beliefs, as well as to identify the social forces that contribute to forming perceptions of sexuality.

Calibration

The Sexual Socialization Instrument is typically calibrated using a Likert scale, where participants rate their level of agreement or disagreement with each statement, usually from 1 (Strongly Disagree) to 5 (Strongly Agree). Scores are aggregated to provide an overall picture of how socialization sources influence the development of an individual’s sexual attitudes and behaviors.

Data Analysis and Usage

Data collected through the Sexual Socialization Instrument are analyzed to reveal patterns and trends in the sexual socialization process. Analyses may include statistical methods such as factor analysis to identify key sources of influence, or regression analysis to explore relationships between social influences and sexual attitudes and behaviors. Findings can be used to develop educational programs and interventions aimed at improving sexual education and awareness.

Bibliography

Moore, S., & Rosenthal, D. (1993). Sexuality in Adolescence. Routledge.
Tolman, D. L. (2002). Dilemmas of Desire: Teenage Girls Talk about Sexuality. Harvard University Press.
Ward, L. M. (2003). Understanding the Role of Entertainment Media in the Sexual Socialization of American Youth: A Review of Empirical Research. Developmental Review, 23(3), 347-388.
Brown, J. D., & L’Engle, K. L. (2009). X-Rated: Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors Associated with U.S. Early Adolescents’ Exposure to Sexually Explicit Media. Communication Research, 36(1), 129-151.
Simon, W., & Gagnon, J. H. (1986). Sexual Scripts: Permanence and Change. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 15(2), 97-120.