An Investigation of Virginity in Adulthood
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Authors
McInnis, Meghan Kathleen
Date
2024-12-12
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
psychology , human sexuality , virginity , stigma , mental health
Alternative Title
Abstract
Canadian population data estimate that 21 to 42% of young adults aged 18 to 24 could be considered virgins, having never engaged in vaginal or anal sex. Virginity, however, is a difficult concept to define, in part due to ambiguity about what constitutes sex. This complexity is heightened for LGBTQ+ individuals, who often view virginity as a primarily heterosexual concept. Broadly, this dissertation aimed to investigate the concept of virginity in adulthood. Through a series of three separate online studies and using both quantitative and qualitative methods, this research program focused on adults’ definitions of sex, abstinence, and virginity; the characteristics and experiences of self-identified virgins and how they compare to non-virgins; and the dating and relationship experiences of virgin adults and their partners. Overall, participants’ broadest definition was for virginity. LGBTQ+ participants had broader definitions of sex and narrower definitions of virginity than their heterosexual counterparts. Adult virgins face pervasive stigma, leading to negative emotions and dating discrimination. The results support characterizing adult virginity as a concealable stigmatized identity. Despite this stigma, virgins show considerable resilience, with many finding value in their virginity and those in relationships reporting a high degree of relationship satisfaction. The studies collectively show that adult virgins are not a homogenous group; their experiences, attitudes, and behaviours vary widely. Implications for educational, healthcare, and legal settings and future research directions are discussed.
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Queen's University's Thesis/Dissertation Non-Exclusive License for Deposit to QSpace and Library and Archives Canada
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Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.