CarnalNation

A University of Minnesota research project found that youth who engage in casual sex are not at greater risk of harmful psychological outcomes than those who have sex in committed relationships. The research team led by Dr. Marla Eisenberg examined data from Project EAT (Eating Among Teens), which asked 1311 sexually active young adults (574 males and 737 females) about their sexual behaviors and emotional well-being.

Over half (55 percent) of respondents reported that their most recent sexual relationship was with a monogamous partner and 25 percent reported that their most recent sexual relationship was with a spouse or life partner. Fewer (12 percent) reported that their last sexual encounter was with a close, but not exclusive partner and 8 percent described their last partner as a casual acquaintance. Males were twice as likely as females to report that their last partner was casual or non-exclusive.

The study found that despite speculation that casual sex can be psychologically damaging, there were no differences in the well-being of participants who engaged in casual sex versus those who had sex with committed partners. However, all partnered sexual activity does involve some degree of physical risk including the transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections. These risks can be minimized through consistent safer sex practices facilitated by open communication.

"While the findings from this study show that young adults engaging in casual sexual encounters do not appear to be at increased risk for harmful psychological outcomes compared to those in more committed relationships, this should not minimize the legitimate threats to physical well-being associated with casual sexual relationships, and the need for such messages in sexuality education programs and other interventions with young adults.”

The full study is published in the December issue of Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health.