Relation Between Body Image, Sexual Functioning, Women's Genital Self Image, and Feminist Identity

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between body image, sexual functioning, genital self image, and feminist identity among a sample of female undergraduate students (N = 288). Exploratory Factor Analysis was used to assess the psychometric properties of the GSI measure. On average the sample reported relatively neutral thoughts and ideations about their genitals regardless of ever having a sexual partner or not. As hypothesized, women<&rsquo>s overall body image rating and GSI<->modified were positively related, r(288) = .238, p < .001. In addition, self<->esteem was significantly positively correlated with GSI<->modified, r(288) = .177, p < .001. However, sexual satisfaction was not significantly correlated with GSI<->modified, r(288) = .00, p = .99. When looking at the women who reported sexual activity in the last 30 days, less than 40% reported that they sometimes or always experienced pleasure through sexual activity with their partner. Further analysis assessing this subsample is necessary to further understand young women<&rsquo>s sexual identity and genital self image. Overall it was found that body image was related to genital self image, however ovulation and feminist identity were not. The results of this study suggested that on average, young women neither liked nor disliked their genitals but were relatively neutral about their genital appearance and functioning. This study was a preliminary attempt to explore this relatively complex topic, therefore additional research is necessary to develop a developmental understanding of women's body image, sexual functioning, genital self image, and feminist identity across the lifespan.