Masculinity-Femininity Guides Sexual Union Formation in Adolescents

Udry, J. Richard; & Chantala, Kim. (2004). Masculinity-Femininity Guides Sexual Union Formation in Adolescents. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 30(1), 44-55.

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Journal Article

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Author(s):
Udry, J. Richard
Chantala, Kim

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Year Published:
2004

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Journal Name:
Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin

Volume Number:
30

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1

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44-55

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2158

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Abstract:

The authors test the idea that patterns of masculinity-femininity (MF) help sort adolescents into romantic couples. Using a nationally representative sample of adolescents in Grades 7 to 12 from a probability sample of secondary schools in the United States, an MF measure was constructed by selecting a set of questionnaire items demonstrating sex differences. For each respondent, the probability of being a boy was predicted. Respondents identified opposite-sex romantic partners within their school. When the partner identified also was interviewed, the authors were able to create MF for both members of the couple. Trichotomizing MF scores for each sex, it was determined that couples with a very masculine boy and very feminine girl are most likely to have sex, and to have sex the soonest. The couples for which both members are in the average MF range for their sex are the quickest to break up. The pattern of MF is a strong influence on the behavior of adolescent romantic couples.

Keyword(s):
Sexual Behavior, Contraceptive Use, and Reproductive Health

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Citation:

Udry, J. Richard; & Chantala, Kim. (2004). Masculinity-Femininity Guides Sexual Union Formation in Adolescents. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 30(1), 44-55.