Chapter 13, Problem 1Q-P426

Summary Introduction

Introduction

In order to study human sexual behavior and sexual preferences, researchers tend to rely on the survey research method to gather data from the sample population. These surveys are helpful in discovering the frequency of sexual experiences, choices, and struggles people face with regards to sexual intercourse. However, the survey method of studying sexual behavior may be subjected to certain limitations and drawbacks.

Explanation of Solution

Suggested response

Some challenges are faced by survey researchers when they study people's rate of sexual behavior through survey method. For instance:

-people may not be open to talk about a sensitive and subjective topic, such as sex, to a stranger. A subject like sex, which is surrounded by taboo, is usually approached with a lot of hesitation and inhibitions.

-a person's inability to accurately recall the number of times they had sexual intercourse. Memory errors may interfere with accurate recall of past experiences.

-social desirability and a need to form an impression might cause people to lie about their frequency of sexual behavior in order to avoid feeling ashamed or embarrassed.

-since people's preferences and desires seem to change and grow with age and time, these surveys may not be reliable in studying sexual behavior. People may experience dramatic shifts in the frequency of sexual experiences for a number of different reasons over a period of time. Therefore, at times, survey study cannot yield appropriate conclusions.