Individual differences associated with high-risk sexual behaviour: Implications for intervention programmes

Abstract

Simpson & Gangestad's (1991) sociosexual orientation inventory measures people's willingness to engage in uncommitted sexual relations. People with unrestricted sociosexual orientations report more casual sex encounters, and multiple and concurrent sexual partners, factors known to increase the risk for exposure to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This study investigated the relationship of sociosexuality to an ‘impulsive’ personality profile characterized by impulsivity in decision-making, general risk-taking tendencies, and greater responsiveness to situational cues. It was found that an unrestricted sociosexual orientation was associated with greater impulsivity in decisionmaking on Tellegen's (1982) multidimensional personality questionnaire (MPQ) Control subscale, greater risk-taking tendencies on Tellegen's (1982) MPQ Harm-Avoidance subscale, and a greater responsiveness to situational cues as measured on Snyder's (1974) self-monitoring scale. Although unrestricted individuals had more knowledge about safe sex behavioural practices, they were more likely to engage in unprotected sexual intercourse (i.e. no condom use). Implications for HIV risk reduction educational programs targeting this population are discussed.