Profile analysis as a method of comparing intergenerational differences in sexual behavior

Arch Sex Behav. 1989 Jun;18(3):229-37. doi: 10.1007/BF01543197.

Abstract

Profile analysis can be used in sex research as a statistical procedure to assess the degree of similarity between various samples on different parameters of sexual behavior. Data are presented to analyze intergenerational changes comparing three independent samples including a time interval of approximately four decades. Profile analysis can differentiate the intergenerational trend. Results show (i) a clear trend of male-female profile-convergence over time; (ii) intergenerational changes in males are few with male sexual behavior seemingly little influenced by social changes; (iii) females show large intergenerational differences. These asymmetric trends demonstrate that the sexual changes within the last four decades are a one-sided process of females liberating from the "behavioral double standard."

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attitude*
  • Coitus
  • Cross-Cultural Comparison*
  • Female
  • Gender Identity*
  • Germany, West
  • Homosexuality
  • Humans
  • Identification, Psychological*
  • Male
  • Masturbation
  • Sexual Behavior*
  • United States