Describing Sexual Health Communication and Education of Non-Heterosexual Romantic Couples

Authors

Cami Allen, SUNY Cortland

Files

Faculty Mentor

Katherine Bonafide, PhD., Kaitlin Flannery, PhD.

Abstract

STI rates are on the rise, especially among college-aged adults. Historically, there has been little research concerning LGBTQ+ couples and their communication and education regarding sexual health. To better understand this perspective, the current study utilized both self-report and observational data from five non-heterosexual couples (N=10; Mage=21.90 years, SD=2.92; 60% female; 100% White). Results showed that, on average, participants talked about sexual health related topics for 9.335 out of ten possible minutes. Afterwards, participants reported feeling comfortable discussing these topics (M=5.48, SD=0.73 on a scale from 1-6). A common theme that emerged was the lack of sexual health education for LGBTQ+ individuals. This was supported by the finding that individuals reported their main sources of education were friends (N=6), and the internet (N=5). Future research should continue to examine sexual health communication within non-heterosexual couples. Such research can help contribute to education catering to members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Publication Date

5-2020

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Sexual Health Education, LGTBQ+ couples, Transformations

Disciplines

Psychology