Ira Reiss

Ira Reiss (1922-2020) was an American sociologist and sexologist best known for his research and theories on premarital sexual permissiveness, the double standard, and the social and cultural factors influencing sexual attitudes and behaviors. He earned his PhD from Pennsylvania State University in 1949.

Reiss's work challenged traditional perspectives on sexuality, arguing that cultural norms and individual experiences shape sexual attitudes and behavior more than biological drives. He developed the "Reiss Premarital Sexual Permissiveness Scale," a tool used to measure individuals' attitudes toward premarital sex. His research explored the relationship between sexual permissiveness and other social factors, such as gender, social class, and religious beliefs.

Reiss was a prolific writer, authoring several books, including "Premarital Sexual Standards in America" (1960), which became a seminal work in the field of sexology. He argued that sexual permissiveness was increasing in American society, driven by factors such as increased individual autonomy and changing gender roles. He also studied the double standard, which he defined as the tendency to judge women's sexual behavior more harshly than men's. He explored the historical and social roots of this double standard and its impact on women's sexual freedom.

Throughout his career, Reiss taught at several universities and served as a consultant to various organizations. His research and theories have had a significant impact on the field of sexology and continue to be studied and debated today.