The sexual opinion survey: Structure and use

As sex research has expanded, a plethora of similar but unconnected theoretical constructs has arisen. Recently, Byrne (1977) and colleagues have developed a conceptual framework which establishes a set of relationships between erotic stimuli, theoretical constructs, and sexual behavior. One main component of this theory is a type of emotional response to sexual stimuli labelled erotophobia‐erotophilia as measured by the Sexual Opinion Survey. Research on this theory indicates that its constructs are important for sex therapists and researchers. Based on previous studies establishing the reliability and validity of the Sexual Opinion Survey (SOS), a study was conducted in which the Survey was administered to 327 adults. Responses to the SOS were used to develop a set of standard scores, percentiles, and preliminary norms to facilitate use of the Survey in clinical practice and research. A principal components analysis of the SOS also was conducted, yielding three reliable and interpretable factors. Analysis of various weighting systems suggested that factor scores derived from the SOS could be calculated reliably simply by addition or subtraction of item scores. Application of the SOS and Byrne's theory for clinical practice, case studies, and clinical research is encouraged as a means of extending the theory and as a way of helping relate elements of sexuality to ongoing social behavior.