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Published on: March 17, 2019
Risk-Taking Propensity, Impulsivity and Risky Sexual Behaviors in Arab-Muslim Adults: The Moderating Effect of
Feten Fekih-Romdhane1,2, Bouthaina Abbassi1,2, Emna Maalej1,2
1The Tunisian Center of Early Intervention in Psychosis, Department of Psychiatry "Ibn Omrane", Razi hospital, Manouba, Tunisia.
Background:
Multiple personality dispositions can be involved in engagement in risky sexual activities. However, our comprehension of the unique mechanisms through which facets of personality place people at risk for risky sexual behaviors (RSB) remains very limited. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that religiosity can serve as a significant moderator between impulsivity and risk-taking propensity personality traits and RSB.
Method:
This study had a cross-sectional design, which took place between January 1st and March 1st 2024. A total of 466 Arab-Muslim adults from the general population of Tunisia was included.
Results:
After adjusting for potential confounders, the interaction impulsivity by religiosity was significantly associated with RSB scores (Beta= -.002; t= -3.22; p= .001; 95% CI -.004; -.001). Specifically, religiosity weakened the association between impulsivity/risk-taking propensity and RSB. At low (Beta= .02; p < .001) and moderate (Beta= .01; p < .001) levels of religiosity, higher impulsivity was significantly associated with higher RSB. In addition, the interaction risk-taking propensity by religiosity was significantly associated with RSB scores (Beta= -.005; t= -2.26; p= .024; 95% CI -.01; -.001). At low (Beta= .04; p < .001) and moderate (Beta= .02; p= .006) levels of religiosity, higher risk-taking propensity was significantly associated with higher RSB.
Conclusion:
Findings suggests that, in individuals who may exhibit impulsivity and risk-taking propensity traits, when religiosity levels are low or moderate, this could pose a risk for engaging in risky sexual activities in Arab-Muslim adults. These findings enhance our understanding of adults' involvement in RSB, and offer insights that can inform targeted prevention and management strategies.
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