Controversy is nothing new to The Kinsey Institute. It is a part of the Institute history, and an understandable response to a complex topic, the study of sexuality. The release of the recent Hollywood film, Kinsey, brings renewed interest and questions about Dr. Kinsey, about the Institute today, and about sex research in general.

Why Study Sex?
Sex research addresses a range of problems, including those related to overpopulation, reproductive health, sexually transmitted diseases (most notably, HIV and AIDS), teenage pregnancy, sexual abuse, assault and harassment, and sexual dysfunction. These problems require basic understanding of sexual behavior, taking into account individual differences, biological and cultural factors, and the influences of family, society, media and education. The Kinsey Institute recognizes that these problems require an interdisciplinary approach and serves as a center for the study of sexuality.

Historical and Recent Controversies

Dr. Alfred Kinsey's Research

• Public and Media Reaction to Kinsey Reports in 1948 and 1953
• Allegations about childhood data of 1948
• Kinsey Institute's response to the film, Kinsey
  

Sex Research and Federal Funding - 2003-04