Premium
Narratives of development, experiences of risk: Adult women's perspectives on relationships and safer sex
Author(s) -
Watson Wendy K.,
Bell Nancy J.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
british journal of health psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.05
H-Index - 88
eISSN - 2044-8287
pISSN - 1359-107X
DOI - 10.1348/135910705x26759
Subject(s) - safer , narrative , safer sex , psychology , developmental psychology , social psychology , medicine , computer security , human immunodeficiency virus (hiv) , computer science , philosophy , linguistics , syphilis , family medicine , condom
Mid‐life women are increasingly at risk for HIV/AIDS, yet relatively few studies have targeted this age group. In this study, we explored views of relationships and safer sex practices among eight well‐educated, single, heterosexual adult women through in‐depth interviews and supplemental questionnaires. The women viewed themselves as competent, responsible, and mature in terms of their relationship and sexual choices. However, their actual sexual practices, and reasons given for these practices, were similar to those of adolescents and of inner‐city women living in high‐risk environments. Findings are significant in highlighting the power and importance of relationship factors, especially trust, as these relate to safer sex practices and prevention initiatives.