Perceptions of Sex, Virginity, and Consent: Considering Gender, Sexuality, and Alcohol Consumption
Date
2019-12
Authors
Frost, Ashley
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Abstract
The present studies investigated current perceptions of what acts constitute a loss of
virginity (study 1) and are considered sex (study 2) for each partner in heterosexual and
same-sex interactions as well as how these perceptions might change with varying levels
of consent (study 3). Participants (Total N = 1,310) read situational statements, vignettes,
and opinion questions concerning their own sexuality and gender, as well as others to
determine not only how a group views itself, but how others view them. Studies 1 & 2
found penile penetration, vaginally and anally, constituted both sex and a loss of
virginity. Seven items that did not constitute a loss of virginity were considered sex and
any act that is non-consensual is not considered a valid sexual interaction nor constitutes
virginity loss. In study 3, even if verbal consent is acquired, if either participant is
intoxicated, the validity of that consent is questioned.
Description
Keywords
Sex, Virginity, Consent, Alcohol
Citation
Frost, A. (2019). <i>Perceptions of sex, virginity, and consent: Considering gender, sexuality, and alcohol consumption</i> (Unpublished thesis). Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.