Surveys of Sexual Behavior and Sexual Disorders

Abstract

Introduction. To promote better sexual health, it is essential to gather accurate data regarding the sexual behaviors of the population. Numerous surveys about sexual habits have been published throughout history, some of them more rigorous and scientifically valid than others. A brief history of sex surveys. The first known sex surveys in the United States were published by Kinsey (1948 and 1953), who surveyed sexual behaviors in humans. His findings, particularly those pertaining to homosexuality, were highly influential, but his sampling method was criticized. The National Health and Social Life Survey (NHSLS), published in 1993, and the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior (NSSHB), published in 2010, are the most recent population-wide sex surveys. Prevalence of sexual behaviors. According to the NSSHB, the majority of men and women masturbate. The most common sexual act is vaginal sexual intercourse. The rates of various sexual behaviors reported by the NSSHB are overall similar to those reported by the NHSLS. Homosexuality. Psychiatry’s view on homosexuality has evolved dramatically since the middle of the century, as has society’s in general. The widely reported figure of “10% of Americans are homosexuals” has been shown by most surveys to be overstated. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and AIDS. The NHSLS and NSSHB have shown that, since the appearance of HIV, the behavior of at-risk populations has evolved toward safer sex practices. Older individuals, however, are nowadays more sexually active and practice safe sex at a lower rate than younger individuals. Prevalence of sexual disorders. The scarcity of large-scale epidemiological data has led researchers to rely on integrating the data from smaller studies. Conclusion. Although the sexual act remains one of the most private events, it continues to have major public health repercussions. The gathering of accurate data regarding sexual behaviors remains more important than ever.