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Evaluations and Future Plans After Casual Sexual Experiences: Differences Across Partner Type
Rose Wesche1, Shannon E Claxton2, Eva S Lefkowitz3
1a Department of Human Development and Family Studies , Pennsylvania State University.
Journal of Sex Research
|March 25, 2017
Summary
Casual dating experiences are often more positive than friends with benefits or booty calls, especially for women. The type of casual sexual relationship and experience (CSRE) impacts relationship goals and evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Human Sexuality
Background:
- Casual sexual relationships and experiences (CSREs) are prevalent among emerging adults.
- The diversity within CSREs may influence mental health and romantic relationship development.
- Understanding CSRE types is crucial for emerging adults' psychosocial well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the associations between different CSRE types and their short-term outcomes.
- To investigate how CSRE type influences evaluations, romantic relationship pursuit, and future CSRE plans.
- To explore gender and sexual behavior as moderators in CSRE outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Multiple regression analyses were used to analyze data from 192 emerging adults (80% female, mean age 22.09).
- Participants reported on recent sexual encounters via daily diaries around an alcohol consumption holiday.
- CSRE types included casual dating, friends with benefits (FWB), and booty call/one-night stands.
Main Results:
- Casual dating partners were associated with more positive and/or less negative evaluations compared to booty calls/one-night stands.
- Individuals with casual dating partners showed greater interest in pursuing romantic relationships.
- Gender and sexual behavior type moderated the associations between CSRE type and evaluations.
- No significant association was found between CSRE type and general plans for future CSREs.
Conclusions:
- Casual dating may be a more rewarding CSRE compared to FWB or booty calls, particularly for women.
- CSREs exhibit significant diversity in outcomes, influencing relationship intentions.
- Findings underscore the importance of differentiating CSRE types for understanding emerging adults' experiences.