What personality traits predict risky sexual behavior or boundary testing among adolescents?
Theoretical background
Personality traits are individual differences in stable patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that influence how people perceive, respond to, and interact with their environments. There are several theories about personality traits such as Big Five Personality Traits, Eysenck's three-factor theory, and Jungian psychology. These models have been widely studied in academic research to understand human behavior. Risky sexual behavior is engaging in any activity related to sex that could result in unwanted pregnancy, emotional distress, STIs/STDs, physical harm, financial problems, legal consequences, relationship difficulties, social stigma, or mental health issues. Boundary testing occurs when someone pushes limits of acceptable behavior in order to find out what they can get away with. It is often associated with risk-taking tendencies and defiance of norms.
Empirical evidence
Several studies have investigated the connection between personality and risky sexual behavior or boundary testing.
A recent review found that impulsivity was linked to higher rates of unprotected sex, casual partnerships, and multiple sexual partners. Another study reported that those who scored high on neuroticism (negative emotion) were more likely to experience sexual assault, whereas extraversion (sociability) predicted lower rates of sexual assault victimization. Another study showed that those who scored low on agreeableness (warmth) had more casual partners, but less satisfaction with them. A fourth study suggested that conscientiousness (planning) predicted fewer sexual partners but not other types of risky sexual behaviors. In summary, personality may predict some aspects of risky sexual behavior or boundary testing among adolescents.
Clinical applications
Mental health professionals should consider assessing clients' personality traits during intake interviews and treatment planning. This information can help understand why certain behaviors occur and what approaches might be most effective for change. Parents should know their teenagers' personalities before having conversations about sex. Teens with high impulsiveness are more likely to engage in dangerous behavior like unprotected sex, so parents need to provide clear rules and expectations while still allowing independence. Teens who score low on agreeableness often have challenges connecting with others, which makes it harder to form lasting relationships. They may benefit from learning relationship skills and practicing self-compassion.
Understanding personality can improve communication and relationships between all parties involved.
What personality traits predict risky sexual behavior or boundary testing among adolescents?
Risky sexual behavior is common amongst adolescents and it can be defined as engaging in unprotected sex, having multiple partners, and not using birth control methods during intercourse. Boundary testing involves exploring one's limits with regard to social norms and rules. According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan, there are certain personality traits that may be associated with risky sexual behavior and boundary testing among adolescents.