Sexual Assertiveness Test

What Is This Test About?

Can you say what you want in bed? Set a boundary when something doesn't feel right? Bring up protection before things go too far?

These are the three sides of sexual assertiveness — your ability to speak up about your own needs, limits, and safety during sex. This 12-question test looks at each one separately so you can see where you're most comfortable and where you might want to build more confidence.

The Three Dimensions

• Initiation: How comfortable you are starting sex or telling a partner what you enjoy
• Refusal: Whether you can say no or stop things when you are not into it
• Prevention: How actively you take charge of protection and safer sex

Scoring and Ranges

• Questions: 12 items, 5-point scale (1=Never to 5=Always)
• Score range: 12 to 60 (higher = more assertive)
• 5 reverse-scored items: Q3, Q6, Q8, Q10, Q12
• Results shown per dimension as an average (1 to 5) plus a total score

> Note: This is a self-exploration tool inspired by the research framework of Morokoff et al. (1997). It is not a diagnostic instrument and does not measure sexual dysfunction or pathology. If you have concerns about your sexual experiences or relationships, consider speaking with a therapist who specializes in sexual health.

Why It Matters

Sexual assertiveness is linked to:

• Better sexual satisfaction — people who speak up tend to enjoy sex more
• Healthier relationships — clearer communication builds trust
• Lower risk of unwanted experiences — setting boundaries protects you

The patterns it measures are not fixed. If you notice a dimension where you score low, that is not a verdict — it is a starting point. Assertiveness is a skill you can practice, one small step at a time.

Reference

Morokoff, P. J., Quinn, K., Harlow, L. L., et al. (1997). Sexual Assertiveness Scale (SAS): Development of a measure for women and men. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 65(3), 465-476.