Colombian validation of the orgasm rating scale in the contexts of sexual relationships and solitary masturbation

Abstract

The Orgasm Rating Scale (ORS) evaluates the subjective orgasm experience (SOE), both in the context of sexual relationships and solitary masturbation. It has been validated in Spain, but to examine the construct in different cultures, this study aimed to analyze its psychometric properties in the Colombian population. A total of 1 097 adults aged 18 to 62 years (mean 27.92 ± 8.54) responded to the ORS and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale in the contexts of sexual relationships and solitary masturbation separately, during May and October 2024. The four-dimensional structure of the Spanish version is confirmed for both contexts by confirmatory factor analysis. It showed adequate reliability, with McDonald’s omega values between 0.74 and 0.94. The ORS scores were significantly correlated between both contexts (r = 0.174 to 0.682), indicating the reciprocity of orgasm between the two domains. In addition, they were significantly associated with measures of sexual functioning (r = -0.097 to -0.641). Finally, through Fisher’s ANOVA Bayesian, the results showed that Affective, Sensory and Rewards subscales discriminated between persons with and without orgasm difficulties in sexual relationships and solitary masturbation, but not Intimacy subscale. In conclusion, the ORS has adequate psychometric guarantees in the Colombian population to evaluate the subjective orgasm experience in the contexts of sexual relationships and solitary masturbation from a multidimensional perspective, showing itself as a valuable tool in the field of sexual and couple therapy.