Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales (SIS/SES)
Dual Control Model: Gas and Brakes
Ever wonder what makes you tick (or not) in sexual situations? 45 questions measuring your tendency to get aroused — and your tendency to hold back. About 10 minutes.
What inhibits or excites your sexuality?
The Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales (SIS/SES) measure two independent systems that regulate sexual response:
Sexual Excitation System (SES) — your "accelerator." How easily you become sexually aroused by various stimuli.
Sexual Inhibition Systems (SIS1 and SIS2) — your "brakes."
- SIS1 — inhibition due to threat of performance failure
- SIS2 — inhibition due to threat of performance consequences (e.g., pregnancy, STIs, being caught)
How it works
Think of it like a car: some people have sensitive accelerators (high SES), some have sensitive brakes (high SIS), and most have a combination. Both systems are normal — they just affect how easily you get aroused and what stops you.
About this scale
Janssen and Bancroft developed the SIS/SES in 2007 out of the dual control model of sexual response. The three subscales (SES, SIS1, SIS2) are scored separately; a single total wouldn't tell you much.
Specifically:
- High SIS1 is associated with erectile difficulties and low desire in men
- High SIS2 is associated with low desire in both sexes
- High SES is associated with sexual risk-taking
Result Interpretation
After completing the 45 questions, you'll receive an immediate, detailed report with:
- Your score — calculated automatically based on your responses
- Score interpretation — what your score means in practical terms
- Dimension breakdown — separate scores for each sub-scale
- Context — how your results compare to general population norms where available
All results are displayed on screen. No account or login needed.