The HBCU Climate and Heterosexual Black College Students: Gender Norms as Predictors of Sexual Deception

Sexual deception involves dishonesty in interpersonal sexual relationships. Among heterosexual Black students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), gender norms may contribute to these behaviors. Furthermore, gender ratio imbalances on HBCU campuses may influence these dynamics. While the literature on sexual deception at HBCUs is minimal, gender imbalances and media portrayals may impact interpersonal communication with sexual or romantic partners. This study examined the role of gender norms, condom attitudes, and perceived mate availability in sexual deception among Black HBCU students. A sample of 286 Black college students (ages 18-24, M = 20.37, SD = 1.70) from an HBCU in the southeastern United States completed surveys measuring sociodemographic information, conformity towards gender norms, sexual deception, perceived mate availability, and condom attitudes. Results indicated men believed the campus had an increased availability of mates, while women had more positive condom attitudes. In addition, self-serving deception was greater in casual or multiple casual relationships. Multiple regression revealed playboy and power over women norms in men predicted increased sexual deception, whereas fidelity and romantic relational norms predicted less sexual deception in women. Furthermore, the relationship between feminine norms and sexual deception varied based on relationship status. Findings highlight gender differences in sexual deception efforts. By examining how socially prescribed norms shape interpersonal behaviors, this study expands the literature on sexual deception and media influence, contributing to broader discussions on fostering healthier interpersonal dynamics in HBCU environments.