The IV Hamilton & Staff-Hoy newspaper survey revealed that 68% of Dominicans believe a woman should be a virgin when marrying. Broken down by sex, 71% of every 100 women believe in virginity. The men are less conservative, with only 64% favoring virginity. They were responding to the question "the fact that a woman be virgin or not, is it a very important matter, somewhat important or not important." 44% responded that it was very important, 24% somewhat important and 32% not important. The percentages vary in the cities, with 65% favoring virginity, versus 74% in rural areas. 49% of citizens of upper income bracket favor virginity, and 43% say it is not important. Middle class voted 66% for virginity, and lower income classes voted 73% in favor of virginity.
