Individual differences associated with high-risk sexual behaviour: implications for intervention programmes.

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1995. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

Individual differences associated with high-risk sexual behaviour: implications for intervention programmes.

AIDS Care. 1994;6(4):393-7. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE MED/95134774
Seal DW; Agostinelli G; Psychology Department, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque.

Abstract: Simpson & Gangestad's (1991) sociosexual orientation inventory measures people's willingness to engage in uncommitted sexual relations. People with unrestricted sociosexual orientations report more casual sex encounters, and multiple and concurrent sexual partners, factors known to increase the risk for exposure to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This study investigated the relationship of sociosexuality to an 'impulsive' personality profile characterized by impulsivity in decision-making, general risk-taking tendencies, and greater responsiveness to situational cues. It was found that an unrestricted sociosexual orientation was associated with greater impulsivity in decision-making on Tellegen's (1982) multidimensional personality questionnaire (MPQ) Control subscale, greater risk-taking tendencies on Tellegen's (1982) MPQ Harm-Avoidance subscale, and a greater responsiveness to situational cues as measured on Snyder's (1974) self-monitoring scale. Although unrestricted individuals had more knowledge about safe sex behavioural practices, they were more likely to engage in unprotected sexual intercourse (i.e. no condom use). Implications for HIV risk reduction educational programs targeting this population are discussed.

Keywords: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/PREVENTION & CONTROL/ *PSYCHOLOGY/TRANSMISSION Adolescence Adult Female Human Impulsive Behavior/PSYCHOLOGY *Individuality Internal-External Control Male Personality Inventory/STATISTICS & NUMER DATA Psychometrics *Risk-Taking *Sex Behavior JOURNAL ARTICLE
950530
M9551005

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