Ideal partner characteristics and actual partner matching in predicted sexual outcomes among African American adolescent girls

Candace Best, Purdue University

Abstract

The present study examined how two commonly identified ideal sexual partner themes, having social status and being a nice guy, were related to multiple sex partners, sexual frequency, condom use and STDs among adolescent girls. The current study also explored how lower rates of potential partners influenced these relationships. The sample included 270 African American young women (aged 13-17 at enrollment) who were part of a larger, longitudinal project located in a mid-sized city in the Midwest. General estimating equations were used to test these relationships. Results indicated that adolescent girls with higher levels of social status ideals were more likely to use condoms. In addition, young women were more likely to endorse that having an ideal partner with social status was important across time. However, participants were less likely to be with a partner who met or exceeded their ideals across time. Nice guy ideals were not related to sexual outcomes. The relevance of examining contextual factors and controlling for previous sexual behaviors is discussed. Additionally, clinical implications of how these relationships may influence mental health are highlighted.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Agnew, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Clinical psychology

COinS