Emotions involved in college students' sexual encounters

The number of sexually transmitted infections continues to rise among late adolescents and young adults. One possible explanation is that an important variable, emotion, is missing from theories and programs promoting safer practices. This study performed a thorough examination of emotions involved during and after sexual encounters and how these related to risk and planning of the sexual encounter. Eighty-two college students were given recall instructions and a questionnaire designed to elicit detailed information about their recent or most memorable sexual encounter. Using content analysis, open-ended questions concerning emotions and thoughts about the sexual partner, the participant in the situation, the place of the encounter, and feelings after the encounter were analyzed. Major findings included individuals who experienced negative or mixed emotions expected certain sexual behaviors less than those who had positive emotions. Unlike previous studies, there were no differences in emotions and planning of the sexual encounter, type of partner, and sexual risk.