Final answer:
The sexual double standard arises from cultural norms where men are allowed more sexual freedom than women. Historically, women were expected to reserve sexual activity for committed relationships, a notion still evident.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sexual double standard in which males and females are evaluated differently is rooted in long-standing cultural and societal norms. The basis for this double standard suggests that men have or are entitled to more sexual freedom, while women are restricted usually to committed relationships. This notion was put forth by Ira Reiss, a pioneer in sexual studies, indicating that historically, societal expectations allowed premarital sexual intercourse for men but prohibited it for women.
Research by Milhausen and Herold in 1999 revealed that this standard, though evolved, still persists to some degree, allowing men to have multiple partners, while women's sexual behavior is more regulated. Furthermore, CDC statistics highlight the disparity, showing that by age thirty-five, men have had on average twice as many sexual partners as women. The emergence of this double standard reflects the broader struggle for women in navigating between traditional roles and the push for modern, egalitarian societal and cultural standards.
Issues such as gender roles, discrimination based on sex examined through intermediate scrutiny, and other societal constructs like the 'glass ceiling' are all part of the broader discourse on equality and recognition of universal human rights regardless of gender.