Measuring subgoals of the sexual behavioral system: What is sex good for?

In five studies, we created and validated a self-report measure of individual differences in sex behaviors and beliefs related to the pursuit of various subgoals of the sexual system. In a pilot study, we created an initial version, in Hebrew, of the Sexual Behavioral System Subgoals (SBSS) scale and determined its 4-factor structure. Study 1 confirmed the 4-factor structure of the SBSS: Relationship initiation; relationship maintenance; promoting frequent sexual activity; and a negative factor reflecting interference with the sexual system. Studies 2 and 3 provided additional evidence for the reliability and validity of the SBSS. In Study 4, American students completed an English translation of the SBSS. Confirmatory factor analysis provided cross-national evidence for the structure of the SBSS.