Reconceptualizing the Sexual Double Standard

Abstract

This study analyzes the prevalence of the sexual double standard using a diversity of measures. It distinguishes between the perception of the double standard at the societal level and one's personal acceptance of it. Young people (N = 413), ranging in age from 18 to 28, from three university classes and two community-based dating bars in Canada were surveyed to determine their attitudes and behaviors regarding the double standard. The majority of the participants perceived the double standard to exist with more women than men perceiving this, especially with regard to the issue of sexual freedom. On a personal level, however, most men and women held a single standard. There was a significant gender difference as men were more likely to endorse a double standard, whereas women were more likely to endorse a reverse double standard, in which men's sexual behavior was evaluated more harshly than that of women's. This study indicates that the double standard is more complex in nature than has previously been thought.

Key Words:

• Sexual double standard
• reverse double standard
• sexual attitudes