The Role of Unrealistic Optimism in College Student Risky Sexual Behavior

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between unrealistic optimism (UO) and risky sexual behavior (RSB) and related consequences in a college student sample. Participants believed they had significantly lower personal risk of engagement in alcohol-related sexual activity, unintended pregnancy, and STIs than the average college student (ps < 0.01). Compared to national data, participants significantly underestimated likelihood of HPV and sexual engagement with four or more partners in the next year (ps < 0.01). Findings support evidence of UO relating to RSB-related consequences, indicating need for improvements in sexual health education and intervention.

Keywords:

• Alcohol
• college students
• risky sexual behavior
• unrealistic optimism

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).