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Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Youth and Adolescence 2/2006

01-04-2006

Does Body Image Play a Role in Risky Sexual Behavior and Attitudes?

Auteurs: Meghan M. Gillen, Eva S. Lefkowitz, Cindy L. Shearer

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Youth and Adolescence | Uitgave 2/2006

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Abstract

Body image and sexuality, both physically-oriented domains of the self, are likely linked, but few studies have examined their associations. In the present investigation, we studied emerging adult undergraduates (ages 17–19), focusing specifically on risky sexual behaviors and attitudes. Participants (N=434) completed a survey on body image, lifetime sexual behavior, sexual double standard attitudes, and attitudes about condoms. Males who evaluated their appearance more positively and who were more oriented toward their appearance were more likely to report risky sexual behavior, yet females who evaluated their appearance more positively were less likely to report risky sexual behavior. For most sexual attitudes, patterns did not differ by gender. Individuals who were more oriented toward their appearance believed more in the sexual double standard, and those who had more positive evaluations of their appearance perceived fewer barriers to using condoms. Intervention implications are discussed.
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Metagegevens
Titel
Does Body Image Play a Role in Risky Sexual Behavior and Attitudes?
Auteurs
Meghan M. Gillen
Eva S. Lefkowitz
Cindy L. Shearer
Publicatiedatum
01-04-2006
Uitgeverij
Springer US
Gepubliceerd in
Journal of Youth and Adolescence / Uitgave 2/2006
Print ISSN: 0047-2891
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-6601
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964-005-9005-6

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