Which option best describes the United States' standing among nations regarding sexual attitudes according to cross-national research?

• A. inconsistent in its attitudes toward sex
• B. Among the most conservative nations with regard to sexual attitudes
• C. Among the most liberal nations with regard to sexual attitudes
• D. In the middle range of sexual attitudes among nations

Answer: (B)

Cross-national research shows that the United States generally sits toward the conservative end of the spectrum when compared with many other nations. This pattern holds across a range of sexual topics—premarital and extramarital sex, contraception, abortion, and related attitudes—where many European countries and others have become more permissive. While there is variation within the United States and some groups hold more liberal views, the overall standing is best described as among the more conservative nations. This is why the choice describing the United States as among the most conservative nations fits best, rather than labeling it inconsistent, middle, or among the liberal end.