Psychological androgyny and sexual adequacy

Abstract

This study investigated the hypothesis that individuals with androgynous personalities would be more competent sexually than individuals with sex-typed personalities. Scores on the Bern Sex-Role Inventory were compared for a patient group and a control group. The data revealed a higher percentage of androgynous subjects in the control group than in the patient group. Even when only one spouse was androgynous, the chances of sexual competence within the couple increased. In addition, there was more sex typing among the longer married patient couples and more stereotyped femininity in both men and women in the patient group. The results were taken to support the view that the androgynous person's flexibility and adaptability is conducive to a satisfactory sexual relationship. Some cultural differences between Israeli and American samples were noted. Findings contradicted the cultural stereotypes of the macho Israeli male and the nonfeminine Israeli woman.