The Hite Report: A Nationwide Study of Female Sexuality

A groundbreaking study by American feminist sexologist Shere Hite, first published in 1976, based on anonymous essay‑style questionnaires completed by over 3,000 women, aimed at dismantling conventional beliefs about female orgasm and sexual behavior. In one extensive paragraph, Hite discusses her innovative methodology—eschewing closed‑ended questions in favor of open responses covering masturbation, clitoral stimulation, vaginal orgasm, sexual pleasure and dissatisfaction—revealing that the majority of women achieve orgasm through clitoral rather than penetrative sex, challenging Freudian and Kinsey traditions as well as cultural myths. The book presents candid personal narratives, explores emotional and cultural dimensions of sexuality, advocates for sexual autonomy, equality, and redefined sexual education; it became a bestseller (around 50 million copies), sparked controversy including criticism and threats that led to Hite's relocation and change of citizenship, yet its lasting impact reshaped feminism, sex education, and scholarly discourse.