The Rice Purity Test: A Century of Women's Shame

While our society’s fixation on virginity and “purity” is absurd, it’s far from a new phenomenon—particularly when it comes to women and girls. Like many societal issues, the notion of virginity and “purity” was largely constructed by men as a means of controlling women’s bodies and lives. This is particularly evident in the United States, where straight, white men have historically held power over others, using tactics like judging a person’s sexual history to maintain that dominance.

Women are often expected to be alluring and desirable, yet they’re simultaneously shamed for expressing their sexuality. The double standard is infuriating but sets the stage for discussing the rice purity test, something you might not be familiar with. Let’s explore what the rice purity test is and look back at other related purity tests throughout history.

What is a Purity Test?

Imagine purity tests as the original BuzzFeed quizzes, but instead of providing lighthearted fun, they serve to stigmatize sexual exploration and perpetuate a culture of guilt and shame—mostly directed at women. A purity test typically comprises a series of yes/no questions regarding sexual experiences, substance use, and other so-called “taboo” activities. At the end, participants receive a score, where 100% indicates total purity and 0% signifies minimal purity.

Though it may seem like a modern concept, purity tests date back to at least the 1920s, with the rice purity test being the most notorious. First published in 1924 in Rice University’s student publication, The Thresher, the test was primarily taken by female students. From a group of 119 participants, the average score was reported at 62.

The rice purity test has undergone changes since its inception, now featuring questions that reflect more contemporary experiences. Originally, only two questions remain from the first version: “Have you ever cheated?” and “Have you ever been drunk?” The test resurfaced in 1974 and again in 1988, with revisions that aimed for inclusivity, such as replacing outdated sections with language that acknowledged LGBTQ+ individuals.

Today, the rice purity test consists of 100 questions, each beginning with “Have you ever…” The questions range from humorous to risqué, including inquiries about various sexual experiences.

While the entire concept of “purity” is fundamentally flawed, the current test at least attempts to be more gender-neutral.

What is the Innocence Test?

Since the 1920s, purity tests have evolved, most recently into the Innocence Test, popular on TikTok. This version features updated questions reflecting modern life, including references to technology. Keep in mind, no test can define your worth or experiences—these quizzes are relics of a culture that seeks to regulate women’s autonomy over their bodies and sexuality. That said, if you’re interested in a lighthearted way to reminisce with friends, feel free to explore the Innocence Test.

Virginity is a Social Construct

It’s essential to recognize that virginity is a social construct, not a medical term. The notion that losing virginity diminishes a person’s worth is misleading and harmful. Sexual experiences do not define our value as individuals; rather, they are personal choices that should not be tethered to guilt or shame.

If you want to learn more about home insemination or pregnancy, check out this excellent resource from the CDC. For additional insights, you might find this post from our blog helpful.

The Rice Purity Test: A Century of Women’s Shame

What is a Purity Test?

What is the Innocence Test?

Virginity is a Social Construct

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