The impact of sexual arousal on sexual risk‐taking: A qualitative study

Abstract

Quantitative studies have shown that both straight and gay men with a low propensity for inhibition of sexual arousal are more likely to engage in unprotected sex in the face of risk. This article reports findings from an interview study of both straight and gay men focusing on the individual's experience of the impact of sexual arousal on risk management. The impact of the immediate post-ejaculatory period and the effects of condoms on sexual arousal are also considered. Three patterns were apparent in both groups: (a) low inhibition of sexual arousal associated with impaired risk management; (b) low inhibition of arousal in risk situations leading to establishment of planning ahead, and (c) no impact of sexual arousal on risk management. We also consider the contrast between committed and uncommitted relationships. Lastly, we consider possible mediating mechanisms between sexual arousal and risk management and discuss the implications of these varied patterns for interventions to reduce high-risk sexual behavior.

Asexuality: Classification and Characterization

“…Both asexuals and non-asexuals may face common baseline difficulties in establishing intimate sexual relationships, hence not differing in their SIS-1 scores, but self-identified asexuals may feel that their low desire confers a lesser risk of subsequent sexual consequences. For instance, high sexual arousal may potentiate sexual risk taking (Canin, Dolcini, & Adler, 1999;Strong, Bancroft, Carnes, Davis, & Kennedy, 2005). This may occur directly, through limiting attention paid to safety cues (e.g., as in alcohol myopia; Steele & Josephs, 1990), or indirectly through the reduced use, for instance, of alcohol to promote feelings of sexual arousal by self-identified asexuals (Brown, Goldman, Inn, & Anderson, 1980).…”

Influences of sexual sensation seeking, alcohol consumption, and sexual arousal on women's behavioral intentions related to having unprotected sex.

“…Although other researchers have recognized the importance of considering sexual arousal’s effects on risky sexual behavior (Ariely & Loewenstein, 2006; George et al, in press; Gerrard, Gibbons, & Bushman, 1996; Strong, Bancroft, Carnes, Davis, & Kennedy, 2005), the emphasis has been on sexual arousal that occurs close to the act of intercourse. This study suggests that, at least for women, sexual arousal may have varying influences over the course of an encounter.…”

“…HIV prevention programs can benefit from incorporating this information in several ways. First, as suggested by Strong et al (2005) regarding men, making women aware of the importance of sexual arousal in making sexual decisions can help motivate them to exert personal control within a sexual encounter. Addressing the role of early sexual arousal (that is, before heavy petting and disrobing) can be discussed in a wide range of settings is thus particularly apt for HIV prevention programming.…”

The Effects of Acute Ethanol Consumption on Sexual Response and Sexual Risk-Taking Intent

“…Potential mechanisms have been poorly specified as sexual arousal resulting in''impaired capacity to process information'' (Canin, Dolcini, & Adler, 1999, p. 353). In qualitative studies, participants described sexual arousal as contributing to feeling a loss of control and impulsivity that leads to sexual risks (Gold & Skinner, 1997;Strong, Bancroft, Carnes, Davis, & Kennedy, 2005). In an adolescent sample, 24% of the variation in condom use was predicted by the level of sexual arousal reported (Boldero, Moore, & Rosenthal, 1992).…”