Regrettable Sex

Abstract

This study examined 392 regrettable sex stories submitted by college students attending a large public university in the northeast. Stories were coded for common themes. In nearly half the sexual episodes (49%), the individuals were drinking. However, only 16% cited “I was drunk” as the primary reason for regretting the sexual experience. Other common reasons cited by students for regretting a sexual experience were: “It was a disappointing first time” (25%), “It was unprotected sex” (22%), “I was cheating on my partner” (17%), “It was a one-night stand” (17%), and “It ruined our friendship” (11%). Implications for educating college students are discussed.

Key Words:

• Sexual behavior
• regret
• college students