Preditores de comportamentos sexuais de risco

: desejo, satisfação e tédio sexual

Abstract

Introduction: The lack of health literacy and the adoption of risky sexual behaviors in society can cause consequences that compromise the individual's health and general well-being. Some studies suggest that emotional variables, such as desire, satisfaction and sexual boredom, may be related to the adoption of these behaviors. Objectives: The present study aims to analyze the relationship between levels of sexual desire, sexual satisfaction and sexual boredom and the role of demographic, psychosocial and behavioral variables, through a quantitative methodology. Method: A sample of 202 women, aged between 18 and 35, residing in Portugal was used. The instruments used were a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Sexual Desire Inventory-2, the Satisfaction Scale for Women, the Sexual Boredom Scale and a set of questions about sexual behavior. Results: The results reveal the existence of a positive relationship between the early onset of sexual activity and socioeconomic status. Women with older brothers have a higher average order in terms of early initiation of sexual activity. Additionally, it was found that having more sexual desire and satisfaction is associated with the likelihood of adopting risky sexual behaviors, specifically regarding a high number of sexual partners and use of condoms. Conclusions: The investigation of the constructs under study expands the scientific literature, albeit with some limitations, related to sexuality among Portuguese women. It warns about the influence of the individual's emotional state on the adoption of risky sexual behaviors. It also demonstrates the importance of developing programs to prevent risky sexual behavior that consequently boost the physical and mental wellbeing of the population.

Date of Award	19 Jan 2024
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Eleonora C. V. Costa (Supervisor)