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.
The impact of sexual arousal on sexual risk‐taking: A qualitative study
Reprints and Corporate Permissions
Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?
To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:
Academic Permissions
Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?
Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:
If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.
Related Research Data
Related research
People also read lists articles that other readers of this article have read.
Recommended articles lists articles that we recommend and is powered by our AI driven recommendation engine.
Cited by lists all citing articles based on Crossref citations.
Articles with the Crossref icon will open in a new tab.