Trent University Researcher Dr. Terry Humphreys Finds
Perceptions of Virginity Relate to Relationship Choices
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Findings Have Important Implications
for Sexual Education Programs
Thursday, February 12, 2009, Peterborough
According to Trent University psychology professor Dr. Terry
Humphreys, virginity is a powerful cognitive schema that has
different meanings for people and can affect their relationships
choices and other life decisions.
In his recent study of 300 students who had experienced their
first sexual encounter, he found that 55 percent saw their
virginity as a “process”, or stage of life, that one goes through to
become a sexually mature adult, while 35 percent perceived it
as a precious “gift” with great value and something to be proud
of. Another 10 percent interpreted virginity as a stigma – an
embarrassment to be concealed and a burden to free oneself from as soon as practically
possible.
While he stresses more research needs to be done in this area, there are implications
for sexuality education and risk prevention. “If there are multiple cognitions with respect
to virginity, they may not be equally influenced by current sexuality education
messages,” said Professor Humphreys, who is also president of the Canadian Sex
Research Forum. “For example, it may be far easier to convince a gift individual to
practice safer sex, than someone with a stigma mentality, who wants to get it over with
at the next available opportunity.”
He also noted some gender differences in the responses. While the “process” orientation was similar for women and men, more women had a “gift” orientation and
fewer a “stigma” orientation than men.
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For more details about this study, or further information, please contact
Dr. Terry Humphreys at (705) 748-1011, ext. 7773