In our society, the fixation on virginity and “purity” has reached absurd levels, particularly when it comes to women and girls. This obsession is rooted in a long history of patriarchal control over women’s bodies and lives. For centuries, straight, white men have wielded power over others, often using a person’s sexual history as a means to exert control. The contradictory expectations placed on women—being both alluring yet chaste—create a toxic environment where sexual expression is often met with judgment.
This brings us to the Rice Purity Test. If you’re unfamiliar, this test is a self-administered questionnaire meant to stigmatize sexuality and promote feelings of guilt, primarily targeting women. It’s essentially a list of yes/no questions regarding sexual activities, substance use, and other behaviors deemed “taboo.” At the end, participants receive a score reflecting their perceived purity, with 100% indicating complete purity and 0% the opposite.
Despite seeming like a modern phenomenon, purity tests have been around since at least the 1920s. The Rice Purity Test originated in 1924 at Rice University’s student newspaper, The Thresher, where it was primarily administered to female students. The average score of those who participated was reported to be 62. Throughout the decades, various universities have created similar tests, often reinforcing the same outdated stigmas.
The Rice Purity Test has evolved since its inception, with only a couple of questions remaining from the original format. The current version includes 100 questions that start with “Have you ever…” and cover a range of activities, such as:
- Danced without leaving room for Jesus?
- Kissed someone below the belt?
- Engaged in voyeurism or incest?
While the notion of “purity” is fundamentally flawed, the test has become somewhat more inclusive over time.
In recent years, a newer version known as the Innocence Test has emerged, particularly popular on platforms like TikTok. This version reflects modern experiences and technology, but it still serves as a way to categorize and judge behaviors. Ultimately, no test can define a person’s worth or identity, which is essential to remember as these assessments often reflect outdated societal norms.
As you explore your own experiences or those of friends, remember that these tests stem from a culture that seeks to police women’s bodies and sexuality. If you’re interested in understanding more about the process of home insemination or pregnancy, check out this excellent resource from the CDC.
For more insight, this blog post can guide you through related topics, including the use of at-home insemination kits, which you can find here: Artificial Insemination Kit.
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Summary
The Rice Purity Test serves as a historical reflection of societal attitudes towards women and sexuality, illustrating the ongoing struggle against patriarchal control and the stigma surrounding sexual experiences. While the test has evolved, the underlying issues of shame and judgment remain prevalent. It’s crucial to recognize that purity is a construct, and individuals should define themselves beyond societal expectations.